Transforming collections, facilities, organization, and services for KSYou!
Johnson Library:
The L. V. Johnson Library on the Marietta campus of Kennesaw State University (KSU) has undergone a number of recent renovations to improve and update the study and computer areas for students. Named after the first director of the former Southern Polytechnic State University, the Johnson Library serves the consolidated KSU community and the Georgia Highlands College Marietta students. In addition to library services and collections, the Johnson Library houses the Marietta Campus Writing Center and Archives.
Originally built in 1968, in the late 1980’s library renovation expanded it to include three floors. Today, there are currently twenty study rooms and nine collaborative technology rooms. Working with the Sizemore Group, some of the latest renovations focused on the first floor by converting a seldom-used rotunda space into an additional seating area. Recent renovations to the Johnson Library include new furniture from Liat, 133 new study carrels on the lower level that will also provide more power outlets when electrical work completes this month, and re-carpeting on the second floor. Banquet, soft chairs, and countertop seating were added to provide a variety of options for patrons.
Future renovations for the Johnson Library are planned to address long-term needs. These include, but are not limited to, the relocation of the entrance and circulation desk, additional interior modifications for the second floor, provisions for a 24/7 space and possibly a café, as well as upgrades to landscaping.
Sturgis Library:
Johnson Library is not the only one with recent renovations. KSU Library System’s Horace W. Sturgis Library has had significant renovations recently as well. In 2016, the Sturgis Library underwent a $4.4 million renovation of the ground and first floor. This renovation involved modernizing these two floors as well as installing new collaborative study areas and office spaces, a new front entrance, and updated mechanical and security systems. Recently a re-carpeting of the second floor, a retreading of the two stairwells, and the addition of more power hubs for electrical access on the first floor was completed. Future, long-term renovation goals are dependent upon the Kennesaw State University master plan. As the university continues to grow, the expansion of library services and collections is a goal that is at the library’s forefront.
The Future:
The renovations at each library address the collections, the facilities, and the services of the KSU Library System, but there is another part of the library that has undergone a significant change recently; organization. This year there has been an increase in personnel, with eight new librarians starting after July 2018 alone. These librarians are Christin Collins, Mary Margaret Cornwell, Jennifer Jacobs, Nashieli Marcano, Chris Morris, Jason Penwell, Ashley Schmidt, and Amanda Sexton. With these new hires and future renovation plans, the KSU Library System continues to support student success and meet the need for enhanced student learning.
Visit the library website at https://library.kennesaw.edu/ to learn more.
Pictured: Jonson Library recently renovated spaces.