As another academic year winds down, we can look back at the challenges we’ve faced, the successes we’ve had, the friends we’ve made, the places we’ve been and all the things big and small that have shaped our school year here at Madison College. We have been part of a community where people support each other through the ups and the downs, reach for goals, create new dreams and strive to be better. Looking back is something that we all do – students, faculty and staff. Your Madison College librarians do it too. And this year, we have more reason than ever to look back over the past year.

On May 20, we will start the move from our current Truax library space to the third floor of the new Gateway building. While we are incredibly excited, we would be remiss if we didn’t share some of our memories of a space that has served us well over the years, even if it’s one we have now outgrown. We have come a long way from the days of having only 18 electrical outlets, broken and ripped seating, unframed posters on the walls, mismatched computer monitors, just six soft chairs, two service desks and no multimedia studios. That was where we were just five years ago. Since then we’ve made a lot of improvements and the place has really come to feel like home. Students flock to our library because it is comfortable, convenient and a place of community. The only thing missing is some new carpeting and a view. Jump ahead to June 1…

From its vantage point three floors up overlooking the beautiful atrium, the library occupies a place of pride in the new Gateway. Come and watch the sunset while you study. We have lots of west-facing windows (and some north and south-facing ones too). Our four multimedia group study rooms overhang the atrium. There will be various kinds of group seating options for students to choose from. Our stack end panels will have embedded iPads for quick look-ups, whiteboards for reading suggestions and fun blocks of color. The library will also have brand new individual study carrels with electrical outlets. Our new space offers a Quiet Study Room and plenty of secluded nooks to cozy up in. Just outside the library doors is our new Library Commons area : a lounge-like environment where students can collaborate while still having easy access to library services and resources.

So enjoy the warmth and freedom of the summer days ahead. When you return, be sure to stop by and see your brand new library and know that place of community you left behind has only gotten better. We will have that new carpet and yes, a room with a view! “Choose a place where you won’t do harm – yes, choose a place where you won’t do very much harm, and stand in it for all you are worth, facing the sunshine.” -E.M. Forster