The provincial and federal governments have announced a combined $36 million investment in Mount Allison University.

The provincial government is contributing $10 million for programming while the federal government is contributing $26 million for retrofits to the university’s Ralph Pickard Bell Library and Archives.

The renovated building will offer a new hub for innovation and learning and deliver spaces and resources that enhance interdisciplinary programming to support the student experience. It will provide opportunities for businesses and employers to connect with students and faculty, as well as community members.

The renovated facility will continue to hold the library’s collections, university archives, research services and study space. Enhancements will include digital teaching and learning resources, audio-visual media labs and broadcasting studios, an incubator space for student-led startups, community spaces and an Indigenous knowledge space.

The federal funding comes from the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program.

Total cost of the project is estimated at $65 million. Mount Allison will raise the remainder of project costs through a combination of philanthropic support and operational funding.