Student Government

By: Jarrod Wolf
Upon entering the old wooden doors to Harper Library, students will be greeted by an unexpected, inviting open space, equipped with a student run coffee shop. The space, once shrouded behind an old and melancholic library counter has been transformed into a space with vibrant colors, high ceilings, and “hip” furniture (reminiscent of the old Uncle Joes, for those old enough to remember it). The space blends Max Plaveskian color schemes (specifically bright red) and the feel of historic UChicago. This of course might scare some students, calling images of Bartlett Quad to mind-otherwise known as the architecturally challenged quad. But there is no cause for alarm, as this is the only area where new painting has occurred. Harper as we know it is relatively the same, sans the removal of all of the old library books.

The deserted shelves are of course what shocked me on my tour of the Harper Library Commons. Those in charge of the renovations are currently in the process of determining what to do with the now empty wooden boxes that litter the walls. I have been told that the empty bookshelves will soon be home to many RSO works of art, pictures, and other student creations, as to not leave the library walls baron. Another good idea proposed by the designers was to have an open, and free (yes free), book exchange section where students can discard their used books in exchange for others.

The new student run coffee shop will provide students with sustenance long into the night. While the hours of this shop are still to be determined, it is a likely to be open until one or two AM. This of course depends on usage of the space, which I believe will be great due to its close proximity to the new dorm. If the usage of this coffee shop is high enough and demand is warranted, I see this space as becoming the prime candidate for an all night coffee shop. Due to the successful recent push by the Slate for credit card use in some of the student shops, this new shop will be preemptively equipped with credit card capabilities, although credit card use at first will not be offered.

In addition to these major changes, there will be a couple study rooms, new carpet and long wooden tables, and a computer lab. Further, more outlets are being installed as to not recreate the lack of power access that frustrates many in Hutch . The Library Hall above Stuart no longer has rotting green carpet and an awkward back section, with random furniture. The carpet has been replaces and new furniture installed.

Lastly, I believe this new renovation is the first step towards bridging the newly widening gap between North and South campus. With it’s late night coffee shop and prime location, it is sure to attract students from all over Hyde Park.