Courtesy of Brianna Bush | The Crow’s Nest
By Sofía García Vargas
After a delay caused by Hurricane Ian, the Nelson Poynter Memorial Library (NPML) renovation is back on track, with the first phase now scheduled to be completed on Friday, Oct. 21.
This first stage includes the completion of new group study rooms and a renovated space for the Student Technology Center on the first floor.
According to Kristina Keogh, the campus library dean, the next step in the renovating process will come in the new year with the installation of new furniture, an updated and streamlined service desk and a redesign of the front entrance doors.
In the meantime, existing furniture from other areas will be placed to allow the immediate use of the new study rooms.
The planning for this renovation initiated back in 2018 and actual construction started earlier this year with a $1,250,000 budget.
The library not only faces a physical makeover, but it is also adjusting to new leadership with Keogh stepping into the dean role this fall.
“As someone new to USF St. Petersburg, I am very much in learning mode. I have been excited to speak to those who work at the [NPML] about their roles and current initiatives,” Keogh said.
Keogh mentioned that she has started conversations with students, faculty and staff about opportunities for collaboration and ways the library can best support student learning and professional goals.
One of those conversations was with St. Petersburg Student Governor Sean Schrader, who suggested a new initiative that will focus on prioritizing student needs and voices at NPML.
As for her goals during her time as campus library dean, Keogh said she wants to “seize upon the momentum that will come with the completion of the first phase of the NPML renovation.” That includes prioritizing student work as well as student-curated exhibitions in the new gallery space.
“I’m excited to continue our conversations and look forward to learning more about campus initiatives and needs in the coming months,” Keogh said.
