The lowest level of Waterfield remains under heavy renovation, with no estimate for when it will reopen.
The project has lasted over a semester since the area was flooded and damaged from a city water main failure last summer. According to the Office of Branding, Marketing and Communication, the work is progressing well, with electrical work nearing completion as well as painting. Then, the renovation will focus on flooring.
“We greatly appreciate everyone’s patience as this project continues to move forward,” a spokesperson for the Office of Branding, Marketing and Communication said.
Cris Ferguson, dean of University Libraries, said Waterfield continues to see high traffic in the building, and noted how packed the main floor has been.
“I know the lower level has been missed by the students,” Ferguson said.
Sydney Littrell, junior teaching English to speakers of other languages & Spanish education major, said she would frequent the lower level if she wanted a change of scenery from her other places of study. Littrell said her favorite feature of the lower level was its spiral staircase. However, while she easily adapted to it being closed, she said it was a bit harder to find an empty table on the other floors.
“Since the downstairs has been closed, the upstairs quiet floor has gotten noisier. In previous years, it was dead silent,” Littrell said. “Someone even answered a phone call up there. Everybody could hear their entire conversation.”
However, as the level has been closed off, Ferguson said University Libraries has worked with Facilities Management so that work continues at a steady pace. They have also taken the opportunity to expand on the infrastructure.
The lower level is planned to receive an additional 30 electrical outlets for students’ access to charge their devices. Books have been moved to allow more study space and extra seating with more natural lighting as well.
The Makerspace, one of Waterfield’s lower level features which possesses 3D printers, a large format laser printer, photographic equipment, recording equipment, etc., is, however, still open.
While the interior entrance to the Makerspace is blocked off, a temporary entrance is set up to the rear of the library. Ferguson said signage has been displayed on the interior and exterior of Waterfield, guiding library patrons to the exterior entrance.
To learn more about the Makerspace, its equipment, hours of operation and training opportunities, visit (https://lib.murraystate.edu/makerspace).
