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Although Edmon Low Library renovations started in August, as more construction projects are added some students are finding it increasingly difficult to use the library for a quiet study haven.
Bonnie Cain, library senior communication specialist, said the library tried to keep construction as hassle-free as possible but there’s a long waiting list to carry out construction in the summer months.
Cain said construction must continue in some areas but some of the larger projects will start after finals week.
Cain said it’s always been a priority to accommodate students and make the library a quiet place for them to study, meet with groups and work on projects.
OSU Physical Plant Trades is performing the renovations, which include the first and second floor.
Cain said most construction takes place between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., which allows students to study for finals without interruption during the evening.
Most of the noise comes from the first floor. The Library is renovating the circulation and reference desk for about $140,000, financed primarily through a gift from Steve and Susan Raybourn.
Cain said although she has heard some complaints from people who frequent the library, most people are finding ways around the noise by studying on the fourth and fifth floors.
Meghan Farley, a biological science senior, said she spends at least three days a week in the library and has found it hard to concentrate on her studies while there.
“I was taking an online quiz at one of the computers in the library right by the blocked off area and the workers were having a conversation that was loud and they were blaring country music,” Farley said. “Everyone was frustrated by it and I found it completely disrespectful.”
Sociology senior Michael Naden said he recently hasn’t been able to study well at the library for many reasons.
“The noise was a bigger problem earlier in the year, but recently the dust from the construction has been a big problem for me because it causes my allergies to flare up,” Naden said.
After the renovation of the first floor circulation desk is completed, the two areas will be combined in a wraparound desk with reference services at one end and circulation checkout at the other, according to an OSU news release.
Cain said the second floor’s Reading Room is still in the design and development stage. It’s financed through an anonymous gift for a non-disclosed amount.
Cain said because a lot of students like to use the Reading Room to study, construction will begin after finals are over.
Private donations make it easier for the library to continue to provide top-notch facilities for students, faculty and staff, Cain said.
Cain said as donations come in and more projects are added, the construction will continue on into the summer.
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