Reference Point

Remarkable resource Another example of how Clarke Library has extended its service boundaries is its strategic collection enrichment, such as addition of the Hemingway in Michigan Collection, which is already bringing scholarly notice and reputation to CMU. Since 2002 the Libraries, including our exceptional Off -Campus Library Services and Clarke Library, have compiled a vivid record of library service success through strong collections, remarkable facilities, eff ectual use of information technologies, and the indispensable talents of our staff . With requisite budgetary support and the generous fi nancial assistance of our appreciated donors, I'm confi dent in predicting an enthusiastic celebration of the 20th anniversary of Park Library in spring 2022. And what's more, I'm looking forward to it. I hope you enjoy this issue of Reference Point. As always, let us know if you have comments or wish more information. Park Library central for student success While it isn't engraved for the world to see, there's a table on the second fl oor of Park Library that almost seems to have Shonda Smith's name on it. Along the windows overlooking the sidewalk surrounding the facility is where the junior apparel merchandising and design student from Detroit can be found quite often. The muffl ed intermittent buzz of her muted cellphone is the only noise that disturbs the silence. "I basically live here," Smith says with a laugh as she looks up from her Accounting 101 textbook. "This is my favorite spot. Park Library is a great place because you have to be productive here. You can't just come here and sit like you could at your apartment or dorm room." Tom Moore Dean of Libraries Such an experience is what project planners were envisioning when they developed visions and designs for a renovated and expanded Park Library nearly 13 years ago. Among these plans were to move beyond the building that opened in 1969 and create a welcoming, well-lit, engaging and technologically advanced facility that includes services and resources to enhance the student and community learning experience well into the future, according to Gerry Edgar, CMU Libraries' business services manager. Edgar worked closely with various contractors, designers and managers throughout the 30-month renovation and expansion project, which was completed with an opening on Jan. 9, 2002. "We wanted to build something that could accommodate whatever changes would come along years from now, feels new. There are days when I come into the building, look up into the atrium and think, 'This is still pretty darn cool. '" " he says. "It still To better serve the university community, space is available in the building for other academic support units, such as the Information Technology Help Desk and Media Services, Student Disability Services, Faculty Center for Innovative Teaching, the Writing Center and the recently opened Math Assistance Center. It also was developed to incorporate advanced technologies and electronic resources, including hundreds of public computer workstations, wireless connectivity and electronic resources that are available onsite and online. "I think we're pretty up-to-date with everything, and we try to keep on top of the newest technology, Diane Thomas, CMU Libraries' access services coordinator. "Even after coming into this building, we've added a lot of new technology. That's what the students want. It's what they expect." " says Shonda Smith Such a facility with these types of services, collections and resources is exactly what Indian River senior Josh Rorick has needed as he's pursued double majors in religion and computer science. "This is where I come to do my homework and research," Rorick says. "When I was writing my thesis last spring, this was a very useful tool for me. " Building on a decade of success, Park Library is poised to serve the university community for years to come. • 3

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