Gale and Paul Kirby Library and Student Resource Center | Stevens Point, Wisconsin

Written by Tracy Lisowe | Jun 8, 2026 9:12:05 PM

C.D. Smith Construction served as general contractor for the Gale and Paul Kirby Library and Student Resource Center at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. Replacing the former Albertson Hall, the four-story, 150,000 SF facility creates a new home for library resources, academic archives, student IT, career services and financial aid while helping position the university for future growth.

Project Timelapse

Watch the transformation of the former Albertson Hall site into the Gale and Paul Kirby Library and Student Resource Center at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, from demolition through construction.

How do you replace a campus landmark while preparing for the future?

For more than 50 years, Albertson Hall served as a central part of campus life at UW-Stevens Point. Replacing a longstanding campus landmark required careful planning, coordination and collaboration among university stakeholders, designers and construction teams.

The new Gale and Paul Kirby Library and Student Resource Center was designed to support how students learn, collaborate and access services today while maintaining flexibility for future campus needs. The facility brings together library resources, academic archives and student support functions within a single destination designed to foster learning, connection and engagement.

HOW WAS SUSTAINABILITY INCORPORATED THROUGHOUT THE PROJECT?

Sustainability considerations were integrated throughout planning, design and construction of the Gale and Paul Kirby Library and Student Resource Center. The facility incorporates green roofs, energy-efficient systems, water conservation measures and site features designed to support long-term environmental performance while advancing UW-Stevens Point's sustainability goals.

Learn more about the sustainability strategies and construction innovations behind the project in Building Smarter at UW-Stevens Point from Beneath the Hard Hat^® Magazine.

WHAT ROLE DID SELF-PERFORM CONSTRUCTION PLAY?

C.D. Smith self-performed concrete, masonry and carpentry throughout the project, helping maintain quality, schedule coordination and consistency across key phases of construction. Direct oversight of critical trades supported efficient execution while aligning construction activities with project goals and stakeholder expectations.

What makes this facility unique?

One of the building's most distinctive features is its monumental staircase, which serves as a central gathering and circulation element connecting multiple levels of the facility.

Fabricated from 115,000 pounds of steel, the staircase required specialized fabrication and installation, including hanger rods imported from Europe and more than three miles of combined welding during fabrication and installation.

Alongside 20,500 SF of curtain wall glazing and 350 roof-mounted solar panels, the staircase anchors the building's primary circulation space and reflects the technical complexity required to deliver the project at this scale.