Library upgrades to '2.0 tech look'

When students enter C.G. O'Kelly Library at Winston-Salem State, they can see the cosmetic updates the University has made including: new paint, furniture, and new meeting and study rooms.

"Last year we were more of a traditional library. We are more 2.0 tech look and feel by adding updated computers," said Forest Foster, information commons coordinator for the library.

"Now we are catering to technology-based programs."

Along with remodeling the classrooms, the library has added new software, computers, and other hardware, including interactive Liquid Crystal Display computer screens.

There are new Macs are on the second floor in the media lab where the Help Desk has been relocated.

The Help Desk had been in the Old Nursing building.

"I definitely agree with moving the Help Desk because the nursing building was inconvenient and out of the way," said Alyssa Cunningham, a senior mass communications major from Virginia Beach.

Students may check out microphones, headphones, web cameras, and iPads.

"Having iPads in the Library is a waste of money," said Brandon Highsmith, a senior computer science major from Chula Vista, Calif.

"There are better things they could with the school's money."

On the other hand, some student said the new furniture on the first and second floors make the library feel "more relaxing."

Danielle McClammy said that the updates have improved the appearance O'Kelly.  McClammy is a senior accounting major from Durham.

The comfortable seating areas in the library are now called Commons.

New carpet has been added to the first floor and bookshelves have been removed to make the floor plan more open.

"I believe the new environment is helpful because it is more conducive to a studying atmosphere," Cunningham said.

Students are now permitted to eat and talk on their cell phones.   

"As long as they [students] clean up after themselves," said Mae L. Rodney, director of library services.

Rodney said that cell phone users should not disturb their neighbors.

"Being able to eat and drink [in the library] is a plus," McClammy said.

"You can still do your work while you're hungry instead of taking a break which may get you off track going to the cafe."

With a valid driver's license, Winston-Salem residents may use some of the O'Kelly's amenities such using the computers and checking out books, but they may not check out DVDs.

"The library staff wants to help the students any way they can," Foster said.  

He said that the staff wants to bring in a professional writing tutor to assist students.

"I like to do my work in the library now versus my room," McClammy said.