The Old University Library sits unused along the side of the academic quad, providing a stark contrast to the filled rooms of Marquette, Bobet and Stallings Halls. This emptiness has been the topic of discussion among faculty, administration and students for several years.
Former University President Bernard Knoth proposed that a change take place at the Old University Library. His plan for sweeping changes on campus included renovating the old library to be the home for the Visual and Performing Arts Department.
According to Georgia Gresham, chairperson of the Drama and Speech Department, discussion of a fine arts complex has been going on for almost 15 years.
“The planning of the renovation of the old library was the closest we have come to a substantive approach,” Gresham wrote in an e-mail.
The plan to renovate the building was discussed at a joint meeting of the visual arts and drama and speech departments, along with the Rev. Kevin Wildes, S.J., university president, and administration members in the fall of 2004, according to Gresham.
The plans were effectively put on hold after this meeting due to a lack of faculty enthusiasm, Wildes wrote in an e-mail.
“The plan was an expensive plan, and because it was a renovation, there were structural limits to what could be done,” he wrote.
“It was determined that a better plan could be developed if we were not handicapped by the exiting building. The possibility of a new building on that location was discussed,” wrote Gresham. Possible new plans, however, were not discussed at the meeting.
While the plan to renovate the old library has been put on hold, both the visual arts department and drama and speech department feel there are needs for each department that should be discussed and considered. According to Gresham, a teaching facility is needed for the department of drama and speech, and a theater would make up a large portion of this facility.
Charisse Celino, visual arts administrative assistant, wrote in an e-mail,”The visual arts building on the Broadway Campus is in much need of repairs/upgrades.”
While both departments acknowledge their needs, they are also acknowledging the needs of the university.
“Although the drama and visual arts departments are disappointed about the change of plans, I think the university needs to utilize the building to help all areas. The fact that the building has sat unused for 10 or more years is the sad part,” Celino wrote.
Wildes also recognized the needs of the university.
“We have great facilities needs. What I want to do, beginning this summer, is assess our needs and develop a coherent plan to meet them all,” he wrote.
Until these plans can be created and discussed, the old library remains an empty building.
Tara Templeton can be reached at [email protected].
