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A Good Book and a New Look: The Library Gets Re-Written
By Heather Bowen '07
STAFF WRITER

As anyone who has lately ventured into the Mary Helen Cochran Library will know, there have been many recent changes made to the library’s interior. There are plans for new carpeting, computer chairs, armchairs, sofas, and more.

Over the last month, fabric samples and wood stains have been displayed on tables, and numerous computer chairs and lounge chairs have been alternated through the library. Students are being asked to give their opinions on most of the options. These changes should serve to give the Cochran an updated appeal to its student, staff, and faculty patrons.

At first, the changes happened slowly. A junior commented that she often studies in the Library, but never noticed more than a new armchair or two. Now that more activity is taking place, she has certainly noticed the difference and is happy with the progress.

Another student, a sophomore who has worked in Cochran since she arrived at Sweet Briar, had plenty of good things to say about the library’s intended improvements.

“I think it’s going to brighten the library. It’s already a pretty homey place, but these improvements will make it more comfortable. Hopefully students will want to go there not just to study, but to be in a wonderful learning environment,” she says.

The only hesitation she had was what effects all the decorating work would have on the quiet study environment students rely upon. On this subject she says: “I am a little concerned about when the changes are going to be made. The entire first floor is being re-carpeted, so that will take up a lot of space and time. It may be done over Christmas Break, but I’m not sure about that.”

The rest of the student body seems to share these opinions. The idea of a newly outfitted study area is very appealing and has enjoyed a warm reception thus far. However, there are still plenty opportunities to see and comment on the changes.

Though students may miss the lovingly worn, dated furniture with which they are so familiar, surely the aesthetic improvements of the renovations next semester will win over the critics in no time.