While I enjoy active study spaces like those on the 2nd Floor, I often find myself in need of a totally quiet corner during crunch time. So I foresee myself making frequent use of the individual study stations on 8. Z MARKS THE SPOT: Hidden Treasures of the 8th Floor Not only is the newly renovated 8th Floor the home of comfortable study pods and an impressive view of campus, but it is also the new home for the Z Collection, an assortment of 4,292 “books about books.” This collection boasts an impressive and varying range of subjects that span everything from calligraphy and cryptography to library science and publishing. Scholars can find books with handy research tips, such as how to read primary sources or write bibliographies, but they can also read more about fascinating topics such as Elizabethan handwriting, censorship around the world and the history of printing. The Z Collection has something for everyone — from students and librarians, to historians and scholars of all disciplines. It contains the latest reference book guides, information about library technology, and even University Librarian Erik Mitchell’s book about metadata standards in libraries, archives and museums. When you visit the 8th Floor, make sure you peruse the Z Collection shelves from top to bottom. With such a variety of books in this expansive collection, you never know what you might find!
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up as the administration and staff begin planning for the top-to-bottom redesign of the 2nd (main) Floor — the most active learning space in the building. At its core, these transformations both affirm and further the Library’s role as a campus hub for 21st-century learning. GEISEL REVITALIZED On October 1, more than a year after the 8th Floor closed for construction, the popular silent study floor officially reopened to the campus community with a festive celebration. When students entered the space, they were greeted by modern interior design with stylish bookshelves and an assortment of comfortable study options, including ergonomicallyfriendly study pods and functional lounge chairs. The Library Student Advisory Council — appointed students who work with Library staff to provide the best possible environment for the student community by sharing ideas and offering feedback on Library policies, services and spaces — was instrumental in helping select the layout and furniture.
The theme of “wonder” permeated the celebration and led guests through a series of activities that started with a ribbon cutting ceremony led by University Librarian Erik Mitchell, Executive Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Elizabeth Simmons and Associated Students President Kiara Gomez. Students then flooded the 9,000-squarefoot floor to get their hands on free snacks and earbuds. They also enjoyed relaxing chair massages, an interactive photo booth and hands-on activities like sharing their academic goals on a colorful sticky note collage that blanketed the south facing wall. “The renovations are impressive. The natural light and views are amazing in comparison to the rest of the Library,” said senior Daron Woods. “While I enjoy active study spaces like those on the 2nd Floor, I often find myself in need of a totally quiet corner during crunch time. So I foresee myself making frequent use of the individual study stations on 8.” While the role of the Library has gradually evolved over the last half-century, one thing remains the same: it is a sanctuary of academia, a place of discovery, a source of inspiration and a centerpiece for community.
