The Teaching and Learning Center is a classroom facility serving multiple schools within Columbia University Medical Center (CUMC). To create this much needed classroom and study space, Mitchell Giurgola designed the renovation of an area previously occupied by library stacks. The library collection was consolidated into high density mobile shelving located on the lowest level of the facility. These new stacks were then connected to the reading room and circulation desk on the floors above via a new triangular, glass-enclosed stainless-steel stairway. The project provides a total of 15 new classrooms that facilitate a highly interactive and collaborative computer-based curricular model, accommodating distance learning and computerized testing. 

Following the completion of the Teaching and Learning Center, Mitchell Giurgola began working on upgrades to the school’s Health Sciences Library (HSL) to create the Knowledge Center. CUMC asked for a state-of-the-art space with 24-hour availability that would accommodate a variety of new space types including collaboration rooms, computer terminals, high counter seating, table seating, lounge space and training rooms. The renovation expanded library administrative space and allows for an increase in potential total occupants.