Clemens Library updated

Clemens Library underwent renovations this summer and is introducing additional spaces to use and new materials to check out this school year. These changes are designed to improve student learning, engagement and relaxation.

One prominent addition to Clemens Library is the fully furnished “Makers Space,” which features a Cricut, 3D Printers, button makers, embroidery looms and other supplies. Gretchen Trkay, Director of Libraries, stated the space is designed to be “a place where students can test their assumptions without repercussions for being wrong.” There are several events being held in the Makers Space in the coming days, including a voter registration button making event and a workshop with Carol Bruess on Oct. 3 where students can make St. Ben’s decorated shirts.

Clemens Library has also been divided into “active learning,” “focused learning” and “quiet” zones. Due to the constraints of a one-floor building, the zones are designated by signs throughout the building. The move to zone the building for student learning aligns Clemens Library with Alcuin Library, which is divided by noise level and floor.

Two more new additions to the library include the “High” and “Low” sensory study rooms. Made in coordination with the St. Ben’s Senate, the rooms are located in a study alcove. Currently, each study room features a white noise machine. The low-sensory room also features a gradated lamp and a device that helps with breathing techniques, while the high-sensory room features an interactive light panel and fidget toys. Nicole Reuter, Access Services Coordinator, noted that there are continuing plans for both sensory rooms, including adding frosted windows to “help students focus.” The rooms will also eventually be soundproofed to create an isolated space away from the crowded space of the library proper.

When students aren’t busy studying in the libraries, they can now check out a console and some new video games. Consoles include a PlayStation 5, an Xbox, a Nintendo Switch and a Nintendo Wii. Students may also suggest consoles, games, tools for the Maker Space and other materials that they would like the library to invest in. See the library website for more information.

Sarah Gewirtz, Student Engagement Librarian, and her team, have planned numerous extra-curricular activities and events for students’ free time. This Saturday, there will be a double feature anime showing, on Monday there will be a craft workshop where students can make animal paper holders, on Wednesday there will be a book discussion of “Mexican Gothic,” on Thursday there will be take home succulent planting (co-sponsored by Buzzed), and to finish off the week there will be an outdoor game night at Alcuin (co-hosted by tabletop gaming). Library staff are excited for future programs at the library. In the works for the rest of this semester is a special design-your-own study space during finals. One student, chosen by lottery, will have the chance to take over the library director’s office in both Clemens and Alcuin. The student will make a study space wishlist, and library staff will decorate the office for the student. Library staff will also provide study supplies and the students’ choice of snacks. Dates to come for this opportunity.