A New Chapter at the Library
A formal dedication of Utah State University’s new Merrill-Cazier library will be held Friday, April 14, at 2 p.m.
The event will include remarks from President Stan Albrecht, Provost Raymond Coward and ASUSU President Quinn Millett, as well as keynote speaker Richard Rodriguez.
The new Merrill-Cazier library opened its doors on September 19, 2005. The new building was integrated with and expands the previous Cazier Science and Technology library resulting in a 304,000 square foot facility at the center of campus.
“The Merrill-Cazier library is a focal point that marks the physical, academic and intellectual center of our campus,” said Linda Wolcott, vice provost for libraries and instructional support. “It features an environment rich in resources and technology, with a broad spectrum of study environments that supports the various ways students, staff and faculty learn.”
The library was built with leading-edge and innovative elements in every corner of the facility. One of the most anticipated features of the Merrill-Cazier library is the expansive Information Commons that houses 150 computers with online resources and productivity software for one-stop research.
The Merrill-Cazier also houses an automated storage and retrieval system, the first of its kind in a Utah library. Termed the BARN, this system accommodates the current collection and allows for future growth of the library’s collections. This automated system is fast, accurate and cost effective. It allows for increased storage and maximizes space in the new facility.
“The new library really is cutting-edge,” said Millett. “It is an incredible resource for students at Utah State and we’re fortunate to have a facility like this.”
The original Merrill library was built in the 1930s, with two additions constructed in the 1960s. The Cazier Science and Technology library opened in 1995 upon recommendation from a statewide library study. The new Merrill-Cazier library integrates the existing 116,000 facility and extends to the north and east. With this new construction, all library functions will now be housed under one roof.
Friday’s dedication is free and open to the public. Following the dedication, student-guided tours of the new facility will be given.
Writer: Allison Furniss, afurniss@cc.usu.edu
Demolition of the old library began in March. The site should be cleared by early June.
The Merrill-Cazier Library is centrally located on campus. Its dedication is Friday, April 14.
The library's automated storage and retrieval system is the first of its kind in a Utah library.
The retrieval system, called BARN, delivers shelves of books upon request.
The interior of the Merrill-Cazier Library features open space and abundant natural light.
Students work at computers at the new library.
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