One of the main features of the new library at Northern Michigan University will be the grand staircase, which was one of the main talking points of the remodel during the NMU Fall Convocation. (Journal photo by Antonio Anderson)

MARQUETTE – Northern Michigan University’s Lydia M. Olson Library ebbs toward completion, setting in place a much larger learning space and consolidating campus resources. The project is proceeding as planned and still within its budget, and should near completion around late December and be fully functional by the time the NMU 2026 winter semester starts.

“This will locate some of our U.P. Heritage and make it more visible to the students,” said Dean of the Library and Instructional Support, Leslie Warren. “The Central Upper Peninsula Archives will be here and the Beaumier U.P. Heritage Center which is currently in Gries Hall will be there. Now these two can work together, do exhibits together and they are already planning the first exhibit.”

The library will also see a large migration of departments, faculty offices and other organizations migrate from Gries Hall into the library as Gries Hall is set to be demolished in the next year or so.

“Gries Hall is one of the demo candidates,” said Jim Thams, Assistant Vice President of Facilities.

The building was said to be an old dormitory, ill fitted due to its age and being unable to be expanded upon. In May 2026, the lower level of the library is set to be renovated to fit more of the departments, offices and organizations from Gries Hall into it, then soon after, the demolition of Gries Hall is set to begin.

“There is a phase two to this project,” said Thams. “The space on the lower level of the library is going to get renovated and will have more space for everything.”

As to what will come to replace Gries Hall is currently unknown, and more information on that will come out as the second phase of the Lydia M. Olson Library draws nearer.

Antonio Anderson can be reached at 906-228-2500, ext. 550. His email address is aanderson@miningjournal.net.