A library of the future
S
Carrier undergoing extensive renovation and expansion By Andy Perrine (’86)
how of hands: Who among our more than 160,000 living JMU alumni does not have a fond memory of Carrier Library? At some point, all of us have passed through this venerable building and contemplative space, which has served as the intellectual and cultural crossroads of campus since 1939. Bethany Nowviskie, dean of JMU Libraries, described this intersection as, “People, ideas, disciplines, fields — the past and the future all come together in Carrier in really exciting ways.” While Carrier has undergone many modifications throughout
the years, including a major addition in the early ’80s, the time has come to fully renovate and further expand the building for many reasons, most especially because of its heavy usage. “The libraries on JMU’s campus are some of our most heavily trafficked places. They’re always lively and busy, and I think that’s because students love to be in spaces that inspire them to focus on their work,” Nowviskie said. Dean of Libraries Bethany Nowviskie joined JMU in 2019. (Clockwise from left): A 1927 view of the library in the Students’ Building (now Harrison Hall); another view of the same library in 1931; rendering of the future grand reading room on the third floor of the renovated Carrier Library
52
M A D ISON
M AG A Z I N E
PH OTO G R A PH S CO U RT E SY O F J M U LI B R A R I E S / S PEC I A L CO LLEC T I O N S