George T. Potter Library Expecting Some Big Changes

BY MAX LaROCCO

A major renovation of the George T. Potter library at Ramapo is expected to happen within the next two years. 

 Since the renovations on G-Wing began back in 2012, it seems as though there’s always construction underway at Ramapo. As a matter of fact, they are currently repairing the entrance between the C and D Wings.

Although still somewhat far off in the future, plans for the new library can be found on Ramapo’s website. Alongside photographic mockups and very basic blueprint style overhead and side-view imagery, the documents include possible ideas, as well as data backing up the decision to renovate.

What’s Wrong?

“The [George T. Potter Library], which was built in 1977, and renovated in the 1990s, has a long record of water damage, mycological infestations, and microbial contamination. These have been well documented […] and have resulted in the loss of holdings (books, artwork, sheet music, etc.), as well as a reduction in the ability of library patrons to use the library as a location for studying individually or in groups.” is the official statement given in a .pdf named Library Renovations Working Group Charge on the website given above.

According to the Ramapo College website, a Library Renovations Task Force was created in December of 2015 to recommend changes to the existing structure, based on areas that are in need of repair in our library and by comparing with the libraries at other institutions. The task force is comprised of one representative and one alternate from each school, elected by the faculty of each school.

Liz Siecke, Dean of the Library, specified that the building’s roof leaks, the carpet and furniture are very old, the outlets are not capable of supporting use by laptops and other devices, and the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning) system needs to be updated. She also said that only some sections of the library were renovated in the 1990s, and that most of the furniture and carpeting has remained the same.

Interruptions on the Horizon?

Siecke said that they hope to include more group study spaces, computer labs, and quiet study space in the renovations, as those features have been requested by students for years. She specified that When asked if the renovations would disrupt student affairs, she said “I can’t imagine we would work through a renovation without some disruption. We will make every effort to support essential functions and services. A renovation like this will require a lot of patience and flexibility. We are fortunate to have extensive online resources.”

The project is set to be completed by 2018.