The vision for the John F. Milligan Library is becoming reality. After an unexpected closure in 2023, the OWU community came together with extraordinary vision, collaboration, and generosity to create a new kind of academic home.
This summer, progress continued:
- Preserving OWU history: Original stained-glass windows were carefully removed and will return as a prominent feature of the new entrance.
- Building from the inside out: Interior work is underway to create brighter, more welcoming spaces for study, collaboration and creativity.
- Big changes ahead: Exterior work begins Sept. 8, bringing more visible transformation to the JAYwalk.
The approximately 110,000-square-foot, $50 million project is fully funded through donor support, including a record-setting $20 million gift from John Milligan and Kathryn Bradford Milligan ’83.
When fully complete, the Milligan Library will be the first arts-infused library in U.S. higher education, bringing together the Library, Fine Arts, Performing Arts (Music), Smith Center for Faculty Excellence and Palmer Center for First-Generation Student Success.
Portions of the library are expected to open in late 2027. A glass facade, two-story atrium, and spaces designed for quiet study, group work, creativity, and connection will create an inspiring new heart for campus.
Some have asked why projects such as The 1842 could open sooner. The scale helps explain the difference: The 1842 involved about 8,700 square feet and $3 million. The library encompasses approximately 110,000 square feet and $50 million. Its size and specialized spaces require substantially more design, coordination, and construction time. For a major campus project, developing the vision, securing funding, and preparing detailed designs represent essential progress long before people see changes outside.
There’s much to look forward to — and much to be proud of already.
Learn more about the summer’s library projects and progress.
OWU Sponsoring Organization/Office: OWU Libraries
Contacts: Dee Peterson at dmpeters@owu.edu (Library Operations) | Brian Rellinger at barellin@owu.edu (Library Construction Updates)