Architectural drawing shows the site for digiral library on R.W.E. Jones Drive. Courtesy photo
A new library will soon break ground on campus.
Grambling State University President Rick Gallot, SGA President Adarian Williams and Grambling administrators held a press conference on Thursday Jan. 31 where they announced the new facility envisioned to be operational and ready to move in by the end of 2020.
“The digital library will a beneficial installment to bridge the technological gap between the students and the Grambling community,” Gallot said.
The location of the proposed digital library will be Jeanes Hall and across from the Simmie Holland Dorm.
The digital library design is for a 58,000 square foot facility, including over 500 computer stations, 17,000 square feet of student study space and approximately 200,000 physical information resources including, micro-film, video and books. The facility will also feature 5,000 sq.ft. of multi-purpose space with a smooth outdoor landscape.
The announcement of a new library answers many questions have been stirring on campus regarding the future of a library on campus after A.C Lewis Memorial Library was closed down in 2017 due to the mold and moisture caused by a flood. Since then the research and circulation portion of the library has been relocated to the second floor of Charles P. Adams Hall.
During the press conference Gallot, said for 56 years A.C Lewis Library had been a beacon of learning where its main source for information was books. Gallot envisions that the proposed digital library with the support of Gov. John Bel Edwards will be the “Beacon on the Hill”. The addition would make GSU the first HBCU with a digital library. The digital concept relies on state of the art technology that will serves a means to move forward into the 21st century and to further enhance enrollment for “ Generation “Z” Students.
Gallot ensured those gathered that, unlike with A.C. Lewis, the new facility will not have a chance of flooding.
Gallot said he anticipates the new library will solve any current or future technological issues and that the new facility not only appeases the Grambling community, but also provide the educational peace of mind for the student, staff and faculty of GSU.