ORU Library and Holy Spirit Research Center

New Library, New Opportunities at ORU

Tulsa, OK

Students at Oral Roberts University in Tulsa now have greater access to knowledge, information, and advanced technology.

The new J.D. McKean Library at ORU is a 38,427 SF, state-of-the-art facility that is designed to “provide students with access to innovative technologies and creatively designed spaces to facilitate learning and scholarship.”

As part of the library construction, Crossland also built the new home for the university’s Holy Spirit Research Center. This center houses and preserves materials related to the Holy Spirit.

Grand Finishes

Exterior finishes on this $15.8 million project include white and grey Exterior Insulation Finishing System (EIFS), insulated metal panels, pacific blue curtain wall and storefront with black aluminum framing that was built on a radius.

The interior of the library boasts a variety of beautiful architectural features, such as a large open gallery with a grand staircase made of precast concrete treads. Glass railing lines the second story overlooking the main gallery.

There are millwork panels and cabinetry throughout. Other interior finishes include carpet, LVT, and polished concrete flooring.

Proactive Pre-Construction and Collaborative Solutions

During Pre-Construction, our involvement encompassed strategic upfront planning, including value engineering and meticulous scheduling sequencing, all geared towards ensuring their readiness for the school year of 2023.

A notable hurdle our team had to overcome was the delay in material deliveries, particularly concerning the rooftop units. We engaged the manufacturer directly and negotiated down the costs due to the delays. The team continuously updated the master schedule and maintained momentum by bringing solutions to any challenge that arose.

Collaboration with the design team played a central role in our efforts. We vigilantly tracked drawing revisions, ensuring seamless integration of discussed alterations already underway in the construction phase.

Be Our Guest

Through multiple project tours, Crossland established a strong partnership with the ORU president and crews to enhance the site’s appeal to visitors. This encompassed swift jobsite cleanups, meticulous landscaping, and being readily available to address any project inquiries. Our team spearheaded numerous tours, explaining project activities.

A focal objective was preparing the library for the upcoming school year, driving our collaborative efforts with internal teams and subcontractors to achieve a punctual completion. The dedication and seamless coordination among all parties ensured the project’s success.

Project Facts

Industry Sector: Educational
Cost: $17,936,460
Size: 39,833 SF
Delivery Method: Construction Management
Owner: Oral Roberts University
Architect: KSQ Design
Engineer: Phillips & Gomez