We received the comment:
There are really not enough outlets. I have difficulty finding spots to study normally and it was nearly impossible during finals. It would help to put more in here for us. Thanks!
Thank you for your comment concerning the availability of electrical outlets in the Mardigian Library building.
Library staff members and I hear frequently from students about the lack of electrical outlets in the building. We recognize that this is a problem for students and we are trying to address it. The lack of electrical outlets for public use in the library is largely a result of the time when the building was designed, the late 1970's -- before anyone ever dreamed that laptop computers would be as common as they are today.
The library's staff and I are seeking ways to address what is clearly a problem. According to a preliminary estimate that we received recently from the university's Facilities Planning department, the existing wiring in the building will permit the installation of up to 45 additional electrical outlets: 30 more outlets on the main floor, 4 on the second floor, 6 on the third floor and 5 on the fourth floor. The estimated cost for this work is approximately $40,500.
I have been in communication with representatives from the Student Government on this issue. I met recently with the Faculty Senate and informed that body that this is an issue confronting the library. I will be preparing a budget proposal to fund the addition of electrical outlets for consideration by the university administration for the next fiscal year.
In the meantime, we have re-arranged furniture on the first floor to take better advantage of existing outlets and will be adding power strips for easier electrical access. We removed equipment from some of the media carrels so they can be used with laptops.
Thank you again for your comment. I hope that this information is helpful to you.
Tim Richards
Director, Mardigian Library
