OWU Anticipates the Opening of the John F. Milligan Library

What does it take to breathe life into a university? The answer will emerge at Ohio Wesleyan University when the remodeled John F. Milligan Library opens to become a modern hub for studying and creating.

Construction began in summer 2025 for what will become the most ambitious academic and creative hub in OWU’s history. When the remodeled Milligan library reopens in January 2027, it will expand the former Beeghly Library by more than 10 percent, adding roughly 300 study seats, high‑tech classrooms, arts facilities, and collaborative spaces designed to reflect how students learn today. 

The renovation emphasizes flexibility and collaboration, opening the building to the JAY walk with a window wall and a two‑story atrium, while bringing fine arts studios, galleries, and performance spaces into the same footprint. 

Architects describe the approach as “collision learning,” where students from various disciplines work in a shared, dynamic environment.

The remodel is supported by more than $50 million in alumni donations, including a record‑setting $20 million gift from John F. Milligan and Kathryn Bradford Milligan, class of '83. At the announcement ceremony, Milligan highlighted the importance of developing a space that reflects the evolution of learning. 

“We know that today’s students need learning facilities vastly different from the libraries of 60 years ago,” Milligan said. “We are thrilled to support the dramatic redesign of the library to create a place for students and faculty to gather, learn, and constructively discuss ideas right in the heart of campus.”

Dee Peterson, OWU’s director of libraries, says the most meaningful change comes down to one idea: connection. 

“Alumni are investing in more than just a physical building. They are investing in connection - connection to resources, connection to library services and connection to others - all the elements that make a library whole. This new library space will not only allow us to showcase and grow these connections but also evolve the ways we contribute to the core of student and campus life.”

Peterson adds that the redesigned library will bring people and resources together. 

“More group study rooms, designated library classrooms, a digital arts space, more chances to connect with a friend, a classmate, a faculty member. We expect those connections to be both intentional and serendipitous.”

Students on campus are eager to see how the remodeled library meets their needs.  Sophomore Jacob Blubaugh says the redesigned building will make every day studying more convenient and inviting. 

“I think the library will be a great place for people to study, since it's a large and close space to the residential side.”

The remodeled Milligan library is more than a place to study; it will become the new center of campus for students. Come 2027, students will have a place for connection, creativity, and learning shaped for the future.