A transformation is underway in The Basement at the UTA Central Library. Over the next few months, the space will be refreshed just in time for the start of the fall semester. The Basement has long served as a hub where Mavericks come together to build friendships, create memories, de-stress from classes, learn and experience the joy of gaming. 

This renovation is part of UTA Libraries’ ongoing commitment to support student success and create a welcoming environment where creativity and connection can thrive. 

“The main goal of this project was to help with sound mitigation. It gets a little loud down there. People get excited as they play games—as they do. So, we are working to put in some thicker carpeting and have sound panels put on the walls to help with sound absorbance,” Lauren Stutler, Director of Creative Spaces and Services, said. “We want to make sure that we are a good partner to other departments in the Libraries and maintain the space for the needs of our students.” 

The updated design will stay true to The Basement’s energetic and playful aesthetic while incorporating enhancements to improve functionality and comfort. 

“You see a lot of primary colors in the area, which is due to the influence of gaming consoles like the PlayStation. We wanted to stay true to that theme but not be overwhelming,” Stutler said. “So, the carpet will be mostly gray, but it will have squares throughout it that are red and blue that tie into that theme.” 

Renovation work is already underway. Crews have already packed up equipment and moved furniture into storage. Construction is expected to last 10 weeks, with the space reopening Monday, Aug. 18. 

“The project will be similar to the recent renovation of the Access and Discovery Department office suite in the basement earlier this year. New carpet, new ceiling tiles, and new LED lighting are going to be installed,” Howard Schaffer, Maintenance Coordinator, said. “There is also going to be a new hard/resilient floor that will be installed near the elevators to help with the upkeep of the space.” 

While renovations are ongoing, The Basement will only be accessible to UTA Libraries staff through the service elevator. Public access via the main elevator and central stairwell will be temporarily closed. 

In addition to improved lighting and acoustic updates, the project includes upgrades to The Basement’s emergency power and lighting systems to enhance safety during power outages and emergencies. 

This renovation is funded through the University of Texas System Library, Equipment, Repair and Rehabilitation (LERR) grant. The $500,000 grant previously supported the Access and Discovery Department’s renovation in November 2024 and will now complete The Basement’s transformation. 

LERR grants play a vital role in helping UTA Libraries maintain and improve their spaces by supporting large-scale repairs, upgrades, and the purchase of essential equipment and materials. 

Gamers can also look forward to a few additions when The Basement reopens. New Nintendo Switch 2 consoles will be available.  

Retro enthusiasts can enjoy a newly refurbished classic Ms. Pac-Man cocktail arcade game cabinet donated by the Libraries’ supporter John Fletcher. Once the refurbishment is complete, it will debut in the space.  

Stutler said she is excited to welcome students, faculty, staff, and the campus community back into the updated space. 

“I hope the renovations will give the space a more cohesive and refreshed feel, allowing people to enjoy it and continue to make lifelong memories,” she said. 

We can’t wait to see Mavericks back in The Basement—gaming, connecting and creating new stories together.