If a funding proposal submitted to the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities is approved, Carleton’s MacOdrum Library could get a little bit taller.
In addition to two new floors, the library would get a new front extension, the library’s website said.
“We are working with two sets of architects and having consultants to help us understand what students want so [that] we can properly advise the architects,” said librarian Margaret Haines.
Haines said the library staff recently held three focus groups with undergraduate and graduate students to get feedback on the potential renovations.
“Students were very eager to give input and had a lot of insight about what was important to them, especially with regards to study space and types of layout and technology,” said Pearl Jacobson, a reference librarian and one of the facilitators of the focus groups.
There were approximately 20 students at each, she said.
“Comfortable seating and more technology was a common suggestion,” Jacobson said.
The library was built in 1958, Haines said, and has undergone several renovations since, including an extension of the third floor, redone interior and additional renovations on the fourth floor.
“Whenever money is available, we try to get more space,” she said. “They can give us ideas and the architects come with ideas of their own to incorporate.”
A survey was also available on the Carleton website for students who couldn’t attend the sessions but wanted to provide feedback, she said.
The current plans have been in the works for a long time, said library employee Ron Chakola.
“It’s important to have extended resources and knowledge in any library – that’s why people come,” Chakola said. “More space is always a good thing. We definitely need renovations.”
Haines said some of the challenges have been in ensuring the renovations meet the different needs of graduate and undergraduate students.
“We’re facing challenges where we are trying to meet the needs of everyone — from traditional library users to the more modern,” she said.
The new renovations would also increase space for students with disabilities, Haines said, adding that the expected date of completion for the plans is this spring.