TARLETON STATE UNIVERSITY DICK SMITH LIBRARY
The Dick Smith Library at Tarleton State University in Stephenville, Texas had served the campus community for more than 50 years, but the building no longer reflected the way students learn, gather, and connect. BRW Architects took on the challenge of transforming a dated facility into a modern academic hub, beginning with a fundamental rethinking of how the library meets the campus. A new welcoming entry was designed to connect directly to the Texan Trace, the main pedestrian spine of campus, pulling the library back into the heart of student life.
The design pairs a 10,200 SF addition with a 4,600 SF renovation to create a building that works harder for its community. Rather than simply adding square footage, BRW focused on the quality and flexibility of the spaces inside — well-lit areas for both collaborative and individual study, a large instruction space, and a multi-purpose room suited for events and gatherings. Natural light and thoughtful interior planning give the expanded library an open, inviting character that encourages students to stay longer and engage more deeply.
The project also required creative problem-solving behind the scenes. When unforeseen structural conditions emerged during construction, BRW worked closely with the contractor and university stakeholders to develop reinforcement strategies that kept the project on budget and on schedule. The result is a library that honors its place on campus while giving Tarleton State a facility ready to support the next generation of students.
