Library Remodeling is Almost Finished

Photo Credit: James Fileccia

The remodeling of the library is in its final phases of completion. There are no more major reconstruction projects but only pending minor changes. After remodeling that began in 2012, new amenities include individual and group study rooms, classrooms and interactive tv’s and smart-boards in all the major classrooms, IT assistance, instructional technology support, new furniture, and stairs. Still to come: The removal of all the outdated books replaced with new ones, replacing the current Mac desktops, the addition of two more individual study rooms, one of which group study rooms will be used for additional tutoring, and a sound-proofed Podcast room to accommodate media students who need to make a noise.

Library Director Antonia Di Gregorio

Library Director Antonia DiGregorio said, “The library is transforming into a commons because there are more student services and the library is more student-oriented.” In fact, traffic in the library has tripled since the start of the remodeling. The library still offers student services such as the Math redesign lab, the writing center, math lab, librarian offices, reference desk, IT desk, as well as allowing students to borrow iPads for up to six hours, portable DVD players and USBs, and as well as disposable headphones.

Students have said that the library has become a safe haven for them to study and get work done more efficiently. As the library is in its final stages of remodeling, students notice that there is a different ambiance in each floor.  In 2014, Fast Company described changes at OW, asking if technology has made libraries obsolete:

“The College at Old Westbury recognized that its 1980s-built library at the heart of campus no longer adequately met student needs. The state of New York and the school committed to an extensive planning exercise that led to expanding the range of seating types and creating collaborative study rooms, digital and analog media labs and individual research spaces. Collectively, these renovation efforts prepared the library to accommodate a growing collection for the next 20 years, provide staff with sufficient space for student support, and introduce adaptable and technology rich environments across the library. The rejuvenated library not only enriches the existing campus experience but is also aiding in student recruitment and retention for the future.”

Libraries have evolved due to the relationship between technology and learning, and SUNY Old Westbury has now caught up to the latest developments, making the library a showcase for the school.