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News

Improved library lauded

Speakers and student groups celebrate end of three-year renovation

by REBECCA DAOUD
The Daily Cougar

The threat of rain couldn't stop a dedication ceremony held for the M.D. Anderson Memorial Library and The Honors College on Wednesday. 

The celebration began at 10 a.m. and included performances by the UH Spirit of Houston Marching Band, the UH Steel Drum Band, the Cougar Dolls, UH cheerleaders and University mascots Shasta and Sasha. 

Kendrah Smith, a mathematics freshman, said she was walking by the library when she saw the event. 

"The library used to be so dark and boring; now it is so much bigger and brighter, and it makes me want to come study more," Smith said. Library events coordinator Carolyn Meanly said the new construction has expanded the library, making it a place for students to meet and have study groups.

"The students have been so supportive, and we are so proud of the fact that throughout the three-year construction, the facility was never shut down," Meanly said. 

At times during the construction, areas of the library were taped off creating paths for the students to make their way around the construction. 

"This was quite an inconvenience, considering we have 8,000 to 12,000 students coming into the library every day," Meanly said.

A new sculpture was also added in front of the library during the expansion project. One percent of the budget for any UH building goes toward artwork. 

Artist James Sambora from Washington created the sculpture of literary phrases outside the library. It has a light in the center that illuminates the words at night and creates a shadow on the library.

"Thank you to all of the people who gave their support and made this dream come true, especially the library staff who never gave any less than their best service," said Dana Rooks, dean of libraries.

University President Jay Gogue also attended the event. 

"The life flow of the University is through the libraries. Thanks to the private donors who donated over $25 million -- this is a great day in the life of UH," Gogue said.

Student Government Association President David Williams said the new facility will encourage students to use the library.

"Now students want to hang out at the library. It is great that the students have a safe place here that they can go to at all hours," Williams said.

Dick Johnson, Co-Chair of the Capital Campaign Committee, which raised $20 million for the expansion, died before the project's completion. His wife, Belle Johnson, Co-Chair of the Committee, spoke in his honor.

"I know Dick is upstairs listening to this and enjoying every minute of it," she said.

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