Wow. What a transformation. The Anderson Academic Commons stands before you. It wasn’t always this stunning.
Before 2013 this building was known as Penrose Library. It served the University of Denver for over 40 years. The original Penrose Library opened in 1972. Its design was quite unlike anything else on campus. Think bright yellow bright orange bright red and purple. The furniture was unique too. Doughnut chairs pod chairs even carpeted mounds to climb on.
But times change. Student needs evolve. In 2012-2013 a major renovation took place. Funded by 5464 donors including a significant gift from alumnus Ed Anderson and his wife. The result? The Anderson Academic Commons a LEED Silver Certified building. This space reflects ten years of feedback. It’s designed for 21st-century students and teachers.
The transformation is more than skin deep. The Anderson Academic Commons isn’t just a library. It’s a hub. A central location for learning and research. It houses the main library of course. But it also includes a research center a writing center a digital media center and more. Students can find support for all their academic needs under one roof. This includes the Math Center the Center for World Languages and Cultures and the Science and Engineering Center.
Even the atmosphere changed. The vibrant original colors gave way to subtler hues. The quirky furniture was replaced with functional alternatives. Yet somewhere the spirit of the original design remains. A nod to the past within the context of the present.
Today the Anderson Academic Commons is more than a library. It’s a collaborative space. It offers group study rooms booths quiet zones and individual study areas. There’s even a cafe. Students can choose the atmosphere that best suits their needs.
The Anderson Academic Commons serves as the intellectual heart of the University of Denver campus. It welcomes students faculty staff and the broader community. It’s a place where knowledge is shared and learning thrives. It’s a testament to the power of collaboration innovation and a commitment to providing a supportive learning environment for all. A place where the past informs the future. A place where learning and discovery are at the center. A place where you stand right now.