AUTHOR: ALLY VOYLES
A public library is the most democratic thing in the world. What can be found there has undone dictators and tyrants.
—Doris Lessing
CGGS’s brand new, recently refurbished, totally fabulous library will be opening its doors to all students Thursday afternoon, as soon as school is over – with the exception of senior students, who will get to use the library starting Thursday morning during their study periods. It will return to normal operating hours from Friday onwards.
The librarians have been working tirelessly, alongside the Library Refurbishment Committee, in order to make sure it is ready for student use as soon as possible. The remodeled library includes movable furniture, state-of-the-art discussion rooms, self-checkout stations, and a brand-new floor plan.
One of the biggest differences between this ‘2022 edition of the library’ and the last year’s is its spacing. The Annex is no more, replaced by flexible learning spaces, large windows for natural light, and even more discussion rooms. “My favorite part of this new library are the flexible learning spaces,” said Ms. Winifred Hanson, a member of the Library Refurbishment Committee. “They give students autonomy, along with the discussion rooms. Students can book them and hold [clubs] and have study sessions.”
“I definitely like the moveable shelves – students can create their own spaces,” said Ms. Caroline Docker, a librarian. “I also like the new senior study space. It’s not cramped in the corner like it used to be.” The new senior area has taken over where the fiction section used to be, complete with brightly-coloured booths and several new charging stations.
While some greenery was lost in order to make room for the changes to the library, it has been replaced with outside seating and a bright red awning soon to come. There’s varied seating, with booths and high chairs and sofas. There’s also a new staffroom for the librarians – “it has a dishwasher!” said Ms. Docker.
There are only two things missing: the students, and the books! The library won’t be fully functional until Term 2, because of all the work that is still taking place in terms of organizing. The books themselves each need new stickers on the backs, and need to be shelved. Keep an eye out for announcements about a volunteer opportunity to help out the librarians.
Lastly, the librarians want to name each of the rooms in the library, maybe after female literary figures – leave your suggestions in the comments below!