This article was written by Kayla Culver, a contributing author for The Concordian.
The Carl B. Ylvisaker Library got a facelift over the summer. New furniture was added to Serendipity, the asbestos was removed from the Fishbowl ceiling and the Fishbowl was wired, adding more computers.
The changes have not stopped. Walking to class you may have noticed or heard the construction happening the last few weeks. The construction workers are tuck-pointing. The process of tuck-pointing is when the mortar, cement that holds the bricks together, becomes damaged. It then must be removed and replaced with new mortar.
There has also been discussion about whether or not the Fishbowl is going to be made into a multipurpose room containing a large classroom. Also, when the room is not in use it will be used as a computer lab and study area for students. Sharon Hoverson, director of the library explains that there is currently no design plan.
“When we do have a design,” Hoverson said, “we will ask students for their input. Our intention is to involve students in the process.”
Sophomore Kayla Nelser worries what work she will get done if she is in the Fishbowl attending a class.
“It would be fine if I was there to study,” Nelser said. “If I was there for I class, I feel I would be too distracted.”
Hoverson says the extra room will allow larger classes to meet in the library and not have to deal with the inconvenience of not enough space. This will allow students with physical disabilities, and those who have a difficult time getting to the second floor, access to a classroom in the library.
Another change that is going to happen is acquiring a bigger elevator because the library is currently not handicap accessible. Minnesota law requires that buildings be handicap accessible, therefore this is a change that must happen.
Librarian Theresa Borchert said for those with physical disabilities the librarians will get needed materials. There are also stations for the visually impaired to read and listen to books.
Borchert also said anyone who is physically disabled can arrange to get materials by contacting Monica Kersting in the Counseling Center.
Hoverson said she hopes the changes will take place over the next three to four years.
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