Carroll College unveiled its new Corette Library and Simperman Learning Commons filled with study rooms, a 24/7 area and a podcasting room to students on Monday.
Students returned from spring break to see a newly remodeled library on their campus that offers them new ways to study for their courses.
Library director Jennifer Oates said everyone is excited to see it almost completed. The main portions of the library are finished and available to students, but some rooms like the podcasting room and some of the lecture rooms are still being put together.
The bottom level of the library remodel began in 2018 and was finished in 2019, but the newest addition on the main floor was planned a couple of years prior to its completion earlier this year.
The newest remodel offers 17 study rooms for students, with views of Montana scenery and Nelson Stadium after doubling the amount of windows in the facility.
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The remodel was funded entirely through donations from Roy and Frances Simperman, the M. J. Murdock Charitable Trust, Sunderland Foundation, Ron and Tar Rickman, Tom Harrison, Tom and Diana Dowling, and Jerry Berberet, among many other donors.
"This endeavor redefines our library as a modern venue for education, creativity and collaboration. It's a testament to the vision and generosity of Roy and Frances Simperman, and to the collective effort of our community," Carroll College President John Cech said.
Phase one was the lower level of the library, costing $1.88 million. The newest addition to the library is phase two, costing roughly $6 million.
The Simpermans contributed about 54% of the donations and M. J. Murdock Charitable Trust contributed an $800,000 grant toward the project.
New features in the library were made in response to direct student feedback. Oates said students wanted a 24/7 space, more study rooms and more windows.
The 24/7 space or the Fireside Room includes vending machines and a fireplace with security cameras that will monitor the number of students who use the space so the school can accurately accommodate their future needs.
Due to some of the spaces not being complete, classes will not take place until the fall semester.
The Wi-Fi in the building has also improved, allowing students easier access to material online that they need for their courses, according to Oates.
Another space in the remodeled library is the Center for Innovation in Technology for Education, CITE, which offers students a multimedia space with a makerspace including 3D printers and a podcasting room.
"Our goal was to create an inclusive space that fosters innovation and collaboration. With these enhancements, we ensure our library continues to lead in fostering a vibrant learning and research community," Oates said.
Other additions to the library include a tutoring room, mobile outlets, and whiteboards and accessible bathrooms.
Colleen Blake, a sophomore who works in the library, said she is excited about the remodel because it encourages her to study and stay engaged in school.
She mentioned a running joke where she said she lived in the library is now more true because of the advancements.
One of her favorite things about the remodel are the windows, and she plans on experimenting with new features it has to offer.
A senior student at Carroll, Maria Bourekis said she loves the new lighting in the library and as a nursing student she uses the library every day.
She also likes the rooms with the whiteboard walls and tables.
The library's completion created a center for campus life, college officials said, and offers collaborative spaces to students making Carroll College a leader in innovative education and student support.