Northeastern University Snell Library Renovation

Today’s academic libraries serve as vibrant hubs of diverse activity, requiring a broad spectrum of acoustical environments—from buzzing makerspaces and bustling cafés to quiet study zones, collaboration spaces, event venues, and immersive visualization rooms. Acentech brings deep experience in library acoustics, helping transform libraries from silent repositories into dynamic, mixed-use academic centers.

At Northeastern University, the decades-old Snell Library needed modernization to align with the university’s fast-paced, interdisciplinary research culture. Acentech joined MGA Partners’ design team in late 2019, offering acoustical consulting throughout the project’s multi-year, phased design and construction process.

One of the project’s central challenges was balancing proximity and acoustic separation—supporting collaboration while minimizing distraction. To address this, we worked closely with the design team to establish “acoustic neighborhoods,” strategically identifying high-activity zones and quieter areas requiring enhanced sound isolation. We designed clear, intelligible acoustics for the new event space and implemented sound isolation measures to shield it from noise generated by the adjacent café.

We specified a sound masking system to ensure freedom from distraction in open study areas, and designed it to automatically mute in certain zones when those spaces are used for events or presentations. Additionally, our team ensured that mechanical system noise would not interfere with the library’s varied functions, and that external equipment complied with campus standards.

With over two million annual visits, the renovated Snell Library—spanning four floors—is poised to serve students, faculty, and staff for decades to come, providing an inspiring environment for study, collaboration, and innovation.