Our Story

As your new Dean of Libraries I am delighted to be working with the campus community on the largest capital project in Smith’s history: the redesign of Neilson Library. Designed by Maya Lin Studios and Shepley Bulfinch architects, the New Neilson is set to open in 2020 and will retain the library's original 1909 building while restoring its pride of place as the intellectual hub of the college's historic Olmsted-designed landscape.

One of the most iconic buildings on Smith’s campus will be transformed into a truly 21st-century library, with extensive, browsable book collections; state-of-the-art digital technology to enhance the creation of new knowledge; flexible learning spaces adaptable for quiet individual study or group study; and support services to enhance student success. Spanning the south wing of the New Neilson, our world-class Special Collections will be brought together in one space where archives and rare books can be accessed for research and study.

I welcome your input and comments as we work together to create an exciting New Neilson Library.

Susan Fliss
Smith College Dean of Libraries
sfliss@smith.edu

Learn More: Transformations: Smith College Libraries in the 21st Century