Lamar University breaks ground on $90M library renovation

Lamar University officially launched the $90 million renovation of the Mary and John Gray Library last week, marking the first major update to the iconic building since it opened nearly five decades ago.

The groundbreaking ceremony featured remarks from university leaders, including Lamar University President Jaime Taylor, Texas State University System Chancellor Brian McCall, Lamar University’s Acting Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Brett Welch, and Student Government Association (SGA) President Ethan Ellis. Faculty/staff, students, alumni, and community members gathered to celebrate the transformation of the library, which will soon serve as a state-of-the-art learning common for Lamar's students. 

"Today marks a significant milestone as we kick off the first major renovation of the Mary and John Gray Library since its dedication in 1976,” Taylor said. "We’re modernizing the library’s interior with a clear focus on aligning this project with one of Lamar University’s core guiding principles: student success.” 

The renovation will feature modern technology, collaborative spaces, quiet study areas, and updated physical and virtual resources. The library’s exterior will undergo a transformation, with much of the brick facade replaced by glass to create a more open and inviting atmosphere.

"This project will create a dynamic learning commons where students can access both physical and virtual resources," Taylor added. "It will strengthen the library’s role as a central hub for learning as we prepare our graduates for entry into today’s global workforce." 

Dr. Brett Welch highlighted the importance of the renovation in maintaining Lamar University’s competitiveness and attractiveness to

 students. “The library is the heart of our campus, and this renovation ensures it will remain a centerpiece for academic excellence,” he said. “The modernized facility will be a place where students can collaborate, innovate, and thrive." 

Chancellor McCall emphasized the broader impact of the renovation as part of a larger investment in Southeast Texas’ educational infrastructure. “Since 2010, Lamar University has invested $351 million to renovate and construct 47 buildings," McCall said. "This project received nearly $50 million in state funding, and Lamar University is a shining example of what a university can be when the state invests appropriately in its higher education institutions.” 

He also expressed gratitude to Texas House Speaker Dade Phelan for securing funding for the project. “These investments would not have happened without the support and commitment of Speaker Dade Phelan,” McCall said. “Dade is a strong and consistent champion of higher education both during his time as Speaker and before as a rank-and-file member of the House.”

Lamar SGA President Ethan Ellis emphasized the library’s role in students' academic journey. “The library is where students come to study, to connect with others, and to grow,” Ellis said. “This renovation is more than a building upgrade—it's a commitment to future generations of Cardinals. The new design will give students access to cutting-edge resources and a space that will inspire creativity and innovation.” 

Lamar University alumna Hetty Brown, class of 1976, reflected on the library’s significance during her college years. “Visiting the groundbreaking for the renovation of the John Gray Library brought back a flood of heartfelt memories from my time at Lamar University in 1976,” Brown said. “The library was a central part of my college experience, where I spent countless hours studying and connecting with friends. Seeing it evolve for future generations is a meaningful reminder of how the university continues to grow and provide valuable resources for our students.” 

The renovation will include enhanced technological resources, study spaces tailored to various student needs, and a focus on incorporating natural light throughout the building. "We’ll be replacing brick on three sides with glass, which will completely transform the look and feel of the building," Taylor said. "Natural light will flood the interior, creating a more open and energizing environment for students, faculty, and staff." 

The groundbreaking concluded with a ceremonial shovel-turning by university leadership and a performance of the university’s fight song. 

The project is expected to be completed by Fall 2026, transforming the Mary and John Gray Library into a modern hub for student learning, collaboration, and innovation. 

Want to learn more about Lamar University? See for yourself at http://www.lamar.edu