SBU Melville Library Galleria Renovation Enhances Collaboration, Contemplation, Community

The Melville Library opened its doors more than 60 years ago as a central place for student study, collaboration, contemplation and community-building. During winter break 2024, the library continued to expand its accessibility and appeal with a quick, but fairly substantial Galleria renovation that has opened the door to even more good vibes and activities at this landmark location.

This collaborative effort — among areas ranging from Student Affairs and library staff, to Facilities & Services’ Campus Planning, Design & Construction (CPDC) and Campus Operations & Maintenance — was celebrated in style in the freshly painted and adorned Galleria space at a breakfast reception the end of February.

“The Melville Library welcomes over two million visitors each year — and it all starts in the Galleria,” said Janet Clarke, associate dean, research and learning, Stony Brook University Libraries. “That’s why we set out to make this space as inviting, attractive and functional as possible. With the recent renovation, we think we’ve really nailed it!”

Clarke said the new design has “an elegant feel” and that students, who spend countless hours there, have been loving it. “Since the update, the Galleria has become a true campus hotspot,” she said. “It’s buzzing with energy every day of the week, even on weekends. It strikes that perfect balance: lively, yet relaxed. Whether you’re here to catch a concert, enjoy some pet therapy, study or just hang out with friends, it’s become the place to be.”

From left: Karim Boughida, Janet Clarke, Hedieh Yazdanseta, Cynthia Toomey (head janitor, West Campus Custodial Services) and Rick Gatteau.

Being the first stop on the admissions tours, it’s also visited by thousands of prospective students and their families each year. Explained Clarke, “We wanted the Galleria to make a great first impression that will help these potential students see themselves here.”

Vice President for Student Affairs Rick Gatteau agreed, saying, “I’ve already seen so many more students coming to, and enjoying, the space. I just think it’s absolutely gorgeous.”

Both Gatteau and Clarke gave much credit for the smooth orchestration and execution of the work — what Clarke called a truly “harmonious enterprise where everyone did their part” — to Associate Dean of Students Hedieh Yazdanseta. 

“We knew it was a quick turnaround time, because we wanted to make sure that the work was done at a time that there wasn’t a whole lot of traffic to the building. And so we began the day after the last final exam, which was on a Saturday in December, and we completed it by the third week in January, before classes started,” said Yazdanseta. “So in just four weeks, amazing work was completed, just tremendous work. And now this revitalized gathering space will serve as a great community space for all of us.”

Dean of University Libraries Karim Boughida couldn’t be more pleased with the results in an area he believes has special significance for students: “The Library Galleria is one of the most popular spaces at Stony Brook,” he said. “Its high ceilings not only create a sense of openness but also encourage contemplation and reflection — qualities deeply rooted in the design of temples for millennia. While high ceilings have long symbolized grandeur and status, they also enhance the overall experience. For students, this architectural feature creates an environment that feels especially conducive to research and focused study.”

By the Numbers: Nuts, Bolts and Results of the Reno

In addition to a fresh coat of paint and other decorative aspects from furniture to lighting, Clarke described the increased accessibility like this:

More seating! “We went from 64 chairs to 81 — that’s a 26% increase, meaning you’re way more likely to find the perfect study or chill spot.”

More outlets! “No more fighting for a charging station — there are now 38 outlets (up from nine), a 322% boost! Plug in and power up!”