Grambling State University makes history by opening the first digital library in Louisiana and the first HBCU to have one period. The university unveiled the new Digital Library and Learning Commons yesterday.
“It makes sense to be able to have these databases available for our students, and they can get the information in a matter of minutes,” says Dean of the Digital Library and Learning Commons Adrienne Webber.
The 50,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art building is made to facilitate learning in every way. It is the perfect place for learning, curiosity, and community, featuring over 150 computer stations, 17,000 square feet of study area, and multifunctional space for gatherings, meetings, and seminars. Since the facility is called Digital Library and Learning Commons, it has no physical material. Students will have access to over 1.6 million digital books and pieces of research material. According to Webber, doing this guarantees that students are ready for both the tech-forward workforce and research in higher education.
The idea of the digital library came about in 2017 with the intent of replacing the existing A.C. Lewis Memorial Library, which opened in 1962. The university added an addition to the library in 1986. After receiving financing and support from alumni, staff, and students, the project was able to start building in 2019.
Webber also says that content that is only available online greatly expedites the checkout process by eliminating the need for numerous physical copies or ongoing purchases of up-to-date research materials. She adds that not only does the digital library represent a tech-forward movement among students but also among libraries and other organizations.
The university had a grand opening this past Thursday to unveil the new facility. Dr. Rick Gallot, the President and CEO of the University of Louisiana System (ULS), and many others were present. He even said a few words about the monumental occasion.
“The ribbon-cutting of the GSU Digital Library and Learning Commons marks a transformational moment for Grambling State University, the University of Louisiana System, and the global landscape of academia,” Gallot said. “This modern marvel provides GSU scholars with a digital learning environment that rivals—and indeed, exceeds—the offerings of many world-renowned and well-resourced institutions.
“It equips our esteemed faculty and staff with immediate connectivity to a vast repository of digital resources and pedagogical tools. This milestone is a testament to the audacious spirit of Grambling State University, where no vision is too big or too bold.”
This project cost the university $16.6 million.
