The Alexander Architectural Archive at the University of Texas at Austin is proud to announce that its Charles W. Moore Room is reopened for service with a brand new lighting system. New light fixtures were a gift of Peerless Lighting Corporation, spearheaded by friend of Charles Moore and lighting expert Dick Peters (University of California at Berkeley Emeritus Professor). Many friends of the library were involved in making this happen, as this gift was two years in the making.
Dick Peters attended a Charles W. Moore symposium in April 1997 and commented on the Moore Room's need for improved lighting. We took the opportunity to express our interest in locating a potential donor for better fixtures, but we never expected this to come to fruition. A month later, in May 1997, we received notice that Dick Peters was working on a donation of Peerless lighting fixtures.
Before fixtures could be installed, many steps had to take place, including working with lighting consultants to measure rooms and assist in selection of fixture design and color; work with General Libraries staff on facilitating, scheduling and reviewing designs and plans; working with physical plant staff on installation of new ceiling tiles, removing old fixtures and installation of the new fixtures, as well as patching and painting; and consulting with many other individuals along the way.
The fixtures were custom manufactured in the Fall of 1998 and received on December 22, 1998. The Archive was immediately closed to public service in order to prepare for the installation. All oversized archival materials were removed from the rooms and everything else (flat files, etc.) was draped in plastic. Work began March 1 and miraculously the Moore Room was reopened, with an exhibition, on March 6 for the UT-wide Open House ("UT Interactive") which was enjoyed by over 200 visitors!
Not only is there a dramatic improve-ment in the appearance of the Charles Moore Room, but the indirect fixtures also improve the light in the room. Our deepest gratitude goes to Peerless Lighting Corporation and to Dick Peters for initiating this gift, as well as to all who helped facilitate the gift's installation. Contact Beth Dodd at (512) 495-4621 to arrange a visit.
Janine Henri and Beth Dodd