Library – Learning Center: Heritage University

When the Library – Learning Center was designed, Heritage University consisted of a former elementary school building purchased from the Toppenish School District, some used portable buildings and a former house. This new building set the design standard for the campus which has been used in the design of many buildings which have followed.

The main spine of the building houses a full-service Library with capacity for 69,500 volumes, the Administration Offices for the College, the Board Room, and restrooms. The east wing comprises the center of the Computer Science Department for the University with four computer classrooms/labs along with associated support spaces. The west wing houses the Academic Skills Center which provides tutoring, testing and general support services for the diverse student population.

The Library was designed to accommodate the advancing technology that has changed and enhanced the way information is accessed by and provided to students. The space emphasizes an open feel and is accented by large peeled wood columns. The building exterior features a brick pattern derived from an intricate basket weave used by the people of the Yakama Nation.