Transformation of the William Knox Holt Library Learning Center
University of the Pacific has transformed our William Knox Holt Memorial Library from a traditional library into a dynamic center for learning, collaboration and student support.
By the mid-2010s, Library usage data showed declining demand for print materials and growing reliance on digital resources. Patron counts revealed too few study spaces during peak hours, and service desk records pointed to rising demand for technology support and research help. At the same time, Pacific recognized the need to increase the visibility and accessibility of academic support services.
In response to these needs, Pacific invited broad participation to reimagine the Library. Design sessions brought together students, faculty, staff and administrators to define what a great library should look like and what services students most needed. Input was gathered from across the university, including faculty, ASUOP, alumni, staff and every school and college at Pacific. The result was a shared vision with four clear goals:
- Create flexible, technology-rich learning spaces.
- Integrate research support with digital library services.
- Expand opportunities for faculty collaboration and development.
- Consolidate academic support into a visible, accessible student success hub.
What the Library Is Today
The $11 million transformation, partially funded through Pacific's "Leading with Purpose" campaign, delivered a 52% increase in student study space, including quiet zones and collaborative areas added in direct response to student feedback. Today, the Library is home to:
- The Innovation Commons, featuring the Cube (a cutting-edge makerspace with 3D printing, VR/AR and more) and a digital project studio
- 20 reservable study rooms, a digital wall, and a large exhibition space
- The General Academic Tutoring Center and Technology helpdesk
- The Center for Teaching and Learning, the Office of Academic Technology and the Office of Academic Assessment, which support faculty innovation and collaboration
- Pacific Global, serving international students and study abroad programs
- An esports arena, Rainbow Reading Room and multifaith meditation space
- The Muir Experience, an immersive special collection honoring naturalist John Muir
Since the transformation, student and faculty utilization of Library services has improved. The university has embraced the Innovation Commons, leveraging its high-tech resources for academic projects and experiential learning. While the General Academic Tutoring Center saw just over 800 appointments in 2017-2018, the Center surpassed 3,000 appointments in 2024-2025.
With over 150 student employees, the Library is also the largest employer of students on campus, which directly aligns with our institutional mission of student success and retention. Prospective students and their families start their campus tours in the Library, highlighting its centrality to the student experience at Pacific.
The Library continues to evolve, guided by the same principles that shaped its transformation: listening, prioritizing student success and continuous improvement.
