Leslie F. Malpass Library
Location: Malpass Library via Google Maps
Opened on September 5, 1978, The main branch of the Western Illinois University Libraries, the Leslie F. Malpass Library provides instructional and research support to the university community. Designed by Gyo Obata and costing over $12.2 million dollars to build and furnish, the Malpass Library is the architectural gem of the campus.
Boasting six levels and enclosing over 200,000 square feet, the building seats up to 1,300 people. The building's unusual design features a four winged, or, pin-wheel shape on all levels. The 4th and 6th stories, however, were rotated 45 degrees thereby creating eight exterior bays that protrude from the building. This unique variation produced thirty-eight interior balconies with all exterior walls above the third level rising two stories high.
Two "state of the art" electronic classrooms, a wireless computer network, and other ongoing technical improvements enable Malpass Library to keep pace with rapidly changing technological developments that impact information access and retrieval.
Numerous computer workstations located throughout the building provide gateways to such resources as the statewide I-Share library catalog and many internationally recognized bibliographic databases. Students become better researchers and information gatherers through the assistance they receive at public service desks. Bibliographic instruction sessions led by the library faculty help students gain confidence and proficiency in using databases and accessing information. The web site of the University Libraries provides a gateway to electronic information resources for both WIU students living on campus, and WIU distance learners who login from around the world.
Historical Overview (Millionth Volume Digital Exhibit)