Elbin Library begins fall semester with exciting changes

Elbin Library begins fall semester with exciting changes

The Paul N. Elbin Library received many new updates over the summer. Stacie Groch, the head of library operations, oversaw these changes with the goal of creating an environment where students can enjoy completing their schoolwork.

“It’s been a lot of hard work and I am so proud of my library staff,” Groch said.

Many changes have taken place on the main and third floor of the library. DVD players have been installed in both tech rooms, the large conference room and two study rooms. Groch also added multiple new bean bag chairs to the main floor as well as five new hammocks that will serve as comfortable seating for reading or studying.

“I really like the new hammocks and bean bag chairs in the library. I’m a commuter, so it’s nice to have a comfy place to go to in between classes. The library just seems cozier,” said Kelsey Stewart.

Photo Credits: Kailey Carpino

The library now has a new book display that will showcase new arrivals and has removed the periodical section shelving to open up more space for student study.

The children’s section of the library can now be found on the main floor. It features new additions such as games, coloring murals, illumination tables, new kids furniture, puzzles, toys and crafting looms.

The library staff also moved the DVD section to the children’s area and added many new movies. “We have a huge selection of DVDs that include comedy, horror, drama, action, Disney and more,” Groch said. Students and staff who bring children to campus are welcome to use this kid friendly environment when visiting the library.

Groch has plans to make even more changes to the library during this semester.

Currently, an alumni wall of honor is being constructed above the porch area on the third floor. The alumni wall will be ready for the President’s Recognition Banquet on Friday, Oct. 15 during Homecoming weekend. The porch area has new hardwood flooring and fresh paint. It will also feature new blinds, TV displays, furniture, over 100 alumni photos and new lettering. Conference room 310 will feature presidential portraits and will be renamed as the Presidential Conference Room. A new DVD display will showcase the new DVD arrivals and Nelle Krise Rare Book Room will feature new displays in the glass cases.

Photo Credits: Kailey Carpino

The basement of the library and the classrooms on the third floor will not have any changes to them. If you have class in the library, these changes will not affect where your class is held.

Groch plans to create events for students throughout the semester that will promote the library and raise money to ensure the possibility of these changes. “We want an environment for students to enjoy while studying and we are working on some events throughout the semester for the students to participate in. Stay tuned,” Groch said.

Groch has been working at West Liberty University since 2005. She says that her goal has always been to increase the traffic in the library, create ways to interact with students through various activities and to make sure that their research needs are met.

Groch believes that the new improvements to the library will make students want to visit the library where they can study, do research, or just relax after class.

For more information, visit the Paul N. Elbin Library or contact Stacie Groch at sgroch@westliberty.edu.

Photo Credits: Kailey Carpino