For the past 18 years, laboratory diagnostic service to the livestock industry of Iowa has been provided by the Division of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State College, through its Department of Veterinary Pathology. The laboratory has been housed in the Veterinary Pathology Building which also houses the Department of Veterinary Hygiene. The crowded conditions have interfered with the most effective operation of the laboratory and there seemed to be no possibility of expanding the present facilities. A careful study of building facilities within the Veterinary Division indicated that the only way to meet the increased statewide demand for laboratory service for animal disease control is through provision of a new modern building.