The transformation of an old Walgreens to a modern, state-of-the-art library was accomplished through the Knox County Library Board and their architects, Cockrill Design and Planning, Inc. The vacant Walgreens became an opportunity to turn a liability into a community asset. In addition to the library, the University operates several outreach programs from the building, such as the College of Architecture ’s lessons with high school students on design and building construction.

The interior is awash with natural light. The landscape design, an attractive combination of native and ornamental plants, was created by Michael Versen and Associates.