President Albrecht Tours Merrill-Cazier Library

Linda Wolcott, vice provost for Library Services at Utah State University, escorted President Stan Albrecht on a tour of the new Merrill-Cazier Library. The library's new space, upgraded facilities and technical enhancements were standouts. And while the space is new, several elements of the old library make appearances, including the welcome quotation, "And with all thy getting, get understanding."

 

Three large, metal filigree globes designed by Larry Elsner originally used as lighting fixtures in the older Merrill Library have been transferred to the new space as sculptural elements. Elsner was a noted sculptor and faculty member in USU's Department of Art. Fittingly, the spheres now hang above the art book area in the new space.

 

While work was still being completed at the time of the tour, the new spaces offered enticing clues to the completed project.

 

Glass, wood and unfinished concrete combine for a modern but warm environment and natural light reaches many parts of the Merrill-Cazier Library. Light from a variety of sources, including windows and skylights, filters to the basement level where the Art Book area is located, as well as Special Collections and Archives. The Arrington Room, Ellsworth Room and Fife Folklore area open onto the Tanner Reading Room, and a wall window offers a glimpse into the historical past of the Hatch Room.

 

The Special Collections and Archives area features display cases, exhibit space and modern climate controlled storage areas, including a cold storage room for photographs.

 

There are six classrooms in the new library and generous areas for group study. The group study rooms include white boards and space for small groups. Also, the entire library is wireless.

 

"The library was built with the idea of collaboration in mind," Wolcott said. "Students like to study together, and the group rooms are ideal for group projects. Some of the computer study spaces can accommodate two students."

 

Custom furniture and warm fabrics add to the environment, but the use of windows marries the exterior landscape with the interior.

 

"We saved the best views for the students," Wolcott said. "The staff and office spaces are separated and more private."

 

President Albrecht commented on the design and thoughtful use of space, including impressive spaces in the FACT Center.

 

"Everything is just wonderful," Albrecht said. "Everyone's done a great job and I'm so pleased."