By Angiah L. Davis
Nestled in Barnesville, GA, approximately 50 miles south of Atlanta and 30 miles north of Macon, the Dorothy W. Hightower Collaborative Learning Center & Library at Gordon State College stands as a beacon of modern academia, dedicated to fulfilling the dynamic needs of students, faculty, and staff. Celebrating its eighth year since an extensive renovation in April 2016, the library has continued to evolve into a pivotal campus partner and a respected regional leader.
Our dedicated staff of five brings a wealth of experience to Gordon State College Library, collectively boasting over 70 years of expertise in library services and academic support. A testament to its commitment to collaboration, student retention, and student success, the library frequently joins forces with academic and non-academic departments to host a diverse array of events. Highlights include the impactful African American Read-In in conjunction with the African American Male Initiative (AAMI), a thrilling Library Escape Room during Welcome Week for New Student Orientation, an inspiring Poetry Night recognizing National Poetry Month, and book signings to celebrate faculty accomplishments. The library's annual student art show in collaboration with the Art Department and the Faculty Publications Exhibit further underscore its role as a vibrant cultural hub on campus.
Regarding student retention, success, and engagement, student athletes utilize the library for weekly study hall sessions. Additionally, the Student Success Center provides in-person tutoring services within the library for all students. Collaborations have been established with various campus departments and organizations including Financial Aid, Student Life and Recreation, Counseling and Accessibility Services, the Education Department, Housing and Residential Life, and student organizations such as Esports.
In 2017, the library received a significant donation comprising books and artifacts, establishing the esteemed FDR Collection in honor of President Franklin D. Roosevelt. This collection, along with a newly acquired FDR replica statue in 2021, serves as a poignant reminder of the historical ties between FDR, Barnesville, and Gordon State College and is prominently displayed on the library's first floor.
Unique offerings, such as the children’s book collection to support the education curriculum, faculty publications, and various specialized collections housed in the nearby Guillebeau Hall archives enrich the library's resources. Additionally, the Memorial / New Baby Book Fund allows faculty and staff to commemorate loved ones through donations of books, fostering a lasting legacy within the library's collection.
Each month the library curates monthly themed displays that span from semester staff picks to gaming and esports, and from student success to mental health awareness.
Our themed book displays bring specific books “front and center” where they can spark interest. Books displays help students discover books they never have discovered browsing on their own. Our displays also promote reading for pleasure as well as academic pursuits. - Paula W. Williams, Library Administrative Assistant
Practical amenities abound within the library, including an online learning room tailored for students with classes online, group and individual study rooms for exams and focused study, and a dedicated Mental Health Nook, where library users may relax and destress. The availability of scientific calculators, graphing calculators, and laptops for checkout further enhances the learning environment for students.
For those eager to delve deeper, the library invites exploration through its website: https://www.gordonstate.edu/departments/library/index.html
