News > December 6, 2007

By Haowei Tong | Staff writer

Following University of Rochester’s model, Z. Smith Reynolds Library has created spaces in both 24-hour rooms and the Periodicals wing for students to offer renovation ideas.

click to enlarge

Students post their ideas in one of the library’s 24-hour study rooms to help the university better cater to their needs when they remodel the study space. (Sophie Mullinax/Old Gold & Black)

In addition to student input, library staff members will be considering model academic libraries from across the nation in planning library renovations.

“Library staff are working with facilities on plans for the potential renovations,” said Lynn Sutton, library director.

ZSR Library needs a few vast improvements.

In a September 2006 report, Library Consultant Richard Jasper said of ZSR, “One-half of the building was completed in 1956, and it shows its age.”

“The newer half of the building is much more user-friendly, but it also lags, in certain ways.”

Both George Washington University and Georgetown University libraries have more than double ZSR’s total expenditures, which is $10,590,170.

Georgetown also reported more than double ZSR’s total circulation transactions, which is 172,503.

These figures include law and medical libraries from all institutions.

ZSR’s strategic plan, the outcome of a year-long effort by library staff, consultants and a LEAD team, however, presents a bold approach to reach and surpass peer libraries.

More than $4 million was requested for the next five years, a sum to be allocated for physical renovations alone.

Sutton reported that the fund requests have not yet been approved by the administration.

Student suggestions for the renovations have included painting the walls, functioning vending machines that accept Deacon Dollars and comfortable, mobile furniture.

Some have also proposed that the library place reference books in the 24-hour rooms and supply pencils and paper.

A few complained about the high ceilings, which cause echoing. “We need more outlet plugs, especially in the reading room,” said senior Kate Davis, voicing another common sentiment.

Freshman Christopher Milam said of the renovations, “The 24-hour rooms are adequate in their current condition, but I would appreciate a print station in the Johnson room.”

“I don’t use the 24-hour rooms, but if there were a Campus Grounds in the library, I would study there and utilize the library more often,” said freshman Angie Phillips.

Students have been resolutely calling for a second Campus Grounds to be located in the library, noting their particular aversion to an ARAMARK facility.

Sutton acknowledged the need to incorporate additional refreshment options and stated that the decision between Campus Grounds and ARAMARK will be made by the administration.

Current periodicals will be moved to the Reference area in the Wilson Wing following the May 2008 graduation.

Funding for new furniture for the Reference area is still pending.

Sutton also said that more recycling bins will be visibly placed throughout the building, but could not comment on the future use of more sustainable technologies, like compact fluorescent lights and Energy Star office appliances.

“If the library is being renovated, it is important to consider the environmental impact of the change and finished product,” said freshman Tyler Askew.

With a host of factors to consider and substantial funding to acquire, library staff and facilities have a difficult but gratifying task ahead.