Library construction schedule for April 2020 completion

The Moffett Library contracting team is bringing back hope to the librarians and students by being two weeks ahead of the set schedule.  According to Clara Latham, the university librarian for 30 years, the construction progress is actually ahead of the projected time by two weeks.

“This is a more complicated project unlike others on campus because we’re trying to live here while they are working… It has been tough for everyone because access to some books are limited or completely unavailable,” Latham said.

The contractors did have some drawbacks like the rain, but Latham said that the library would in fact be finishing on time, if not, early.

“They worked on Christmas break with the bad weather…even worked on Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Our current elevator that they were using stopped working, so it’s been tough for the workers,” Latham said.

Lexis Brickhouse, marketing junior, said she hopes the construction is finished soon because she really misses the study rooms.

“Before the construction I liked to study in the study rooms on the second floor.  They’re nice to work in. I can concentrate and actually get assignments done. Ever since the construction I haven’t gone much because I don’t like studying on the first floor,” Brickhouse said.

Brickhouse said she couldn’t really tell how much had gotten done.  She doesn’t ever really see it advertised.

“I do most of my studying and homework at home now. There are way more distractions at the study places they have set up for us, so I have definitely been more lazy since the library has been under construction,” Brickhouse said.

Douglas Moss, architect, said he is also excited about how the renovation process is coming along.  He said that the project has run very smoothly so far, and with the help of all of the MSU staff, the contractors are determined to finish right on time in April 2020.

“By the beginning of the fall 2019 semester the third floor and the west portion of the second floor will be finished and ready for student use.  The completion of this phase will include a new computer lab, renovated and new group study rooms, a new elevator, new lighting, additional electrical outlets, improved wifi, new furniture and new interior finishes. Your new library is going to be an exciting, transformed space.  I can’t wait for you to see it completed.” Moss said.

The cost of all of the renovations are $7.49 million and includes new tables, chairs, restrooms, plumbing and a new wheelchair accessible elevator.  The project is scheduled to be completed in April 2020.