So full, that it has outgrown the current space and must expand in order to hold all of its historical treasures. Schematic drawings for a much needed addition to the historical library received regent approval June 20.

Work on the new 34,000-sf, three-level addition will begin this winter and take about 18 months. The addition will be erected directly behind the present structure, and will increase storage space for collections, as well as house new work space, offices and an improved conservation laboratory. The project is estimated to cost $5.8 million, which will be funded from central administration sources. Jickling Lyman Powell Associates is the architecture firm.

The library comprises the Michigan historical collections, university archives and records, and access and reference services. It has amassed extensive holdings dating from the era of exploration to the present. More than 30,000 linear feet of archives and manuscripts, 62,000 printed volumes, 1.5 million photographs and other visual materials, and more than 10,000 maps make up the collection.