IMPACT SPOTLIGHTS
TRADITION OF SUPPORTING THE LIBRARY RUNS IN THE FAMILY The Thomas Small Foundation provided a generous multi-year commitment to help the Marlene and Nathan Addlestone Library name the third-floor classroom in honor of Dean Emeritus David Cohen. Among the library board members who assisted Cohen in crafting the plans for the Addlestone Library was Robert Scott “Tex” Small Jr., who worked with architects to create a flexible, student-centric space with room for state-of-the-art learning technology. The Cohen Room is a reflection of that original vision for the Addlestone Library to have the flexibility to adjust to state-of-the-art technology.
The Library Dedicates David J. Cohen Classroom
To celebrate the legacy of David Cohen, emeritus dean of libraries, College of Charleston Libraries dedicated a classroom on the third floor of the Marlene and Nathan Addlestone Library. During Cohen’s time as dean of libraries, 1982–2012, he provided visionary leadership by transforming the library into a 21stcentury resource for students, faculty and the larger community. “David Cohen established our most important, core principle: that the libraries should be the best part of the College of Charleston,” says John White, dean of libraries. “This simple, yet ambitious goal is David’s greatest contribution to the libraries and the College. It underscores every decision we make and is the foundation of who we are and what we do.”
The Small family’s gift represents its respect and appreciation for Cohen, as well as its ongoing investment in the College of Charleston’s world-class library. Robert Scott Small ’36 was a member of the Board of Trustees and recipient of an honorary degree. The Robert Scott Small Building was dedicated in his honor in 1972 and served as the College’s library until the Addlestone Library opened in 2005. Tex has carried on his father’s name at the College, serving on the Board of Trustees and the Friends of the Library Board of Directors and receiving an honorary degree in 2004. For nearly 25 years, he and his wife Catherine have supported the College through gifts to Athletics, the College of Charleston Fund, Friends of the Library and the Louise Johnson Small Scholarship. They also provided a major gift through their estate to the Robert Scott Small Library Enrichment Fund, ensuring that the library’s collections and resources continue to be state-of-the-art and relevant to students for generations to come.
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The David J. Cohen Classroom was named with generous contributions from friends and supporters, including major support from Elizabeth Rivers Lewine, Howdy and Mary Phipps, John Rivers Jr. and the Thomas Small Foundation. The funds raised were earmarked to renovate the space in Addlestone Library to convert it into a flexible learning technology commons. This innovative classroom is used for faculty professional development and student digitalmedia instruction.