Renovated library gets high marks

The H.V Manning Library. (Panther photo by Korey McCaskill)

“I would rate the library a 10 out of 10,” said Ava Highsmith, a freshman biology major. 

Highsmith and her classmate, freshman Sade Richards, shared their thoughts on resources the newly renovated H.V. Manning Library has to offer. 

“I like the whiteboards that are in the pods, it’s great for studying,” said Richards, referring to the new study rooms. 

Other students also praised the study rooms as one of the library’s most useful features.  

Richards said she uses the library daily. “It’s very quiet here.”  

Other students, including Samariah Wilson, Faith Burgess and Shaytoria Mitchell, said the library is an ideal place for studying. They would recommend it to others.  

“I like the amount of space that there is. Everyone is spaced out and can have their own space,” said Samariah Wilson, sophomore mass communications major.  

While students praised many features of the library, they also offered suggestions for improvement.  

Highsmith cited the library’s hours. “I wish the library opened earlier on the weekends.”  

Aya Talley suggested the upstairs area could be better utilized. “I like the downstairs, but the upstairs, it's kind of just there,” she said.  

In addition to these concerns about hours and space, some students pointed to communication as an area needing improvement.  

Several students said they had no idea programs such as database training on Ancestry.com were even happening. Even though emails are sent, student accounts are flooded with information, some of which is missed. 

To address the issue, the library is planning to launch a social media page to share updates and event information. Students say that can be more effective. 

“I’d like to see the library do activities,” Talley said. “Local libraries do things like pottery nights. I know that might cost money, but it could be another way to bring the school together.”   

With praise, suggestions, and a new plan in motion, students hope the H.V. Manning Library will continue to grow as a central hub for studying and community on campus.