Page 19 - Priorities #30 2005-April

“Our current library is designed for everything
to take place within four walls. The reality is that we haveconflictinguses. Classesmeetinthelibraryto learn research methods or work on a technology-based assignment. At the same time, we have individuals who need a quiet space for study and small groups who need space to discuss their project. We need space for tutors to meet with students. We need better protection for our rare books and shelf space for new books,” they explain.
The library’s strength is its contemporary and ever-expanding collection. Teachers’ requests for library materials are nearly always filled, and students can nearly always find what they need on the shelf orthroughaninterlibraryloan. Therangeofonline databases and full-text articles is admirable.
“By making use of adjacent facilities—the Assembly Hall, the music room and some additional space, we can meet all of our needs, “ Peter said.
Students will enter from the patio outside the music room, one of the most beautiful places on the campus. The facilities, and especially the new lobby, could reflect that ambiance, with exhibits that tempt visitors to linger and an enclosed garden patio that encourages relaxed reading.
“It can be a facility that really reflects the value we place on the full range of “reading,” from pleasure reading in a comfy chair, to respecting and using the information collected in books, to accessing the best in online research,” Susan said.
Students Describe The Ideal Center
Middle and High School students met with Headmaster Tim Molak to brainstorm their vision of the ideal student center. While the headmaster mentioned such needs as being protected from the weather (currently, students meet outdoors or in the library), students’ thoughts ranged to these possibilities:
• Adults that students want to reach frequently, such as the college counselor and Dean of Students, might have offices in or near the student center.
• Student publications and student government could work side by side and share resources.
The new library and technology center could be an academic jewel, with the new entryway facing one of the most beautiful plazas and views on the campus and with the amenities that contemporary education demands. This sketch illustrates just one possible design.
Classrooms Will Have New Technology This Summer
“Classroom renovation can’t wait,” said Mr. Molak. Using the school’s annual capital improvement budget rather than campaign funds, every classroom this summer will get a ceiling-mounted projector to facilitate computer-based presentations. Rooms 1-15 will get a “makeover” involving new carpets, paint, ceiling fans, lighting, and whiteboards or “smartboards” that facilitate computer-based learning (See pages 4-5).
“Phase Two of the Campaign includes a goal of completely rebuilding the interiors of all classrooms, and that goal is still important,” Mr. Molak said.
• The bookstore and snack service ought to be there
• Relaxed and comfortable areas to talk, read, or brainstorm—including an outdoor patio to use when weather is good—made students’ eyes light up.
Architects are just beginning the process of defining and detailing a potential student center. It’s still in the dream phase and anything is possible.
The Golden Jubilee Committee has been formed, and plans are in the works for a terrific celebration. “I would love to toast our success with Dom Perignon— that classic champagne named for the Benedictine monk who created it,” the Headmaster said.
Belated Thanks to Betsy and John
In the Annual Report printed last fall, Betsy Haehl and John Kriewall should have been listed under the Golden Jubilee giving level of $250,000 to $499,999. Weappreciatethemany ways in which John and Betsy support the school and regret this error.
–Development Office
—C. Dobervich
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