San Dimas, CA — April 2025 — Life Pacific University (LPU) is excited to announce the completion of major renovations to its library, a project made possible through a generous $100,000 Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) grant and a $175,000 award from the Darling Foundation. These strategic upgrades were designed to create an environment that fosters collaboration, innovation, and student success.
“This transformation is not just about aesthetics or infrastructure—it’s about equipping students with spaces that inspire academic excellence, support diverse learning needs, and promote community,” said Dr. Angie Richey, President of Life Pacific University. “We are deeply grateful to the Darling Foundation and our partners who helped make this vision a reality.”
Highlights of the Library Renovation Include:
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Second-Floor Overhaul: Using the initial $100,000 HSI grant received in Fall 2023, LPU renovated the entire second floor of the library. This included the addition of two modern group study rooms and updated study spaces completed in July 2024.
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Rolling Stack System: With the support of a $175,000 grant from the Darling Foundation, LPU partnered with the Olpin Group to install a state-of-the-art rolling stack system. This upgrade maximized space efficiency and relocated upstairs shelving for better access to reference materials.
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Interior Enhancements: The university recarpeted the front desk area, painted the entire first floor and back hallway, and reconfigured library zones for better functionality.
- New Student Support Spaces: The Academic Success Center (ASC) office was relocated within the library to provide students with convenient access to tutoring, academic coaching, and success resources.
With assistance from academics and advancement, we were able to fund the largest library renovation ever!” said Josh Ortega, Head Librarian. “We sincerely appreciate the grants we received to make this a possibility to enhance and modernize our study space for our campus.”
Students’ response has been overwhelmingly positive.
“The recent library renovations have elevated the space and created a warm and inviting environment for students to dive into our studies,” said Judah Kuhl, a current LPU student. “Campus improvements like this encourage students to pursue excellence in their academic endeavors.”
The full renovation was completed in two major phases, culminating on April 2, 2025. The reimagined library now serves as a dynamic academic hub, promoting deeper engagement and student collaboration.
“These improvements are more than bricks and mortar—they’re a commitment to student achievement and creating equitable, empowering learning environments,” said Dr. Daniel Ruarte, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs.
As LPU continues to grow and serve an increasingly diverse student body, projects like this ensure the university remains a place where every student has the tools and environment they need to thrive.
