By Adam Hoeg
The campus library will close the first two floors for approximately eight months this June for renovations. From June – January 2015, and the third and fourth floors will be the only points of access to students.
The campus center has seen its share of closings and renovations, and unfortunately, they are not through.
The library will be renovated in two phases; the first beginning at the end of the current semester, slated to be completed by the start of the Spring 2015 semester, and the second phase, which will be the remainder of the library will begin at a date not yet determined.
This will complete the renovations to the entire Hammond Campus Center, a project that has lasted roughly four years.
The design of the new space will include remodeling and upgrading the current space to work more efficiently.
“In terms of what we are getting, the library will receive all new furnishings, additional space for tables and chairs, additional computers and electrical outlets for laptop hook-up, and will address the need for more quiet study space,” said Bob Foley, director of library services.
With the new design, students will have more functional study space.
The layout of the library will change. “Removal of the main center staircase will take place, as well as the removal of several walls, a new circulation desk and reference area will be constructed. The library will have a more open and modern feelings with new furniture, computers, etc,” said Foley.
Several students however, are showing concern with the timeline of the construction. “It’s really annoying that we won’t have a fully functioning library for the first semester, the incoming freshman are going to be mortified, and will probably be very confused, but I’m sure it will definitely be worth it when it’s done,” said Fitchburg State junior Emily McGrath.
“The first and second floors of the library will be closed; access will be by elevator and staircase from Hammond Hall. The reference and circulation desks will be moved to the third and fourth floor as a temporary location. The study room on the fourth floor will remain available, and the public access computers will be relocated to those floors as well,” Foley explained.
During the renovations, students will still have a library to use, however, the space will be limited for the semester. “I am excited for the renovations, new computers and more study space is needed. It’s clear that there is a lot of wasted and empty space with the current layout,” said sophomore Sam Carroll.