It took some whining and negotiating to make it happen, and it might not remain after all is said and done. But for now, the new pathway and door leading from Newcomb Hall to Clemons Library has put a bounce in just about everyone's step.
Since late last semester when the infamous "wall" around the site of the new special collections library was erected, University students and faculty members have complained about the inconvenience of walking all the way around the site. What previously was an easy two-minute exchange turned into a five-minute hike.
The suggestion of the new access way first was considered seriously when Student Council raised the issue last year, Director of Clemons Library Vicki Coleman said.
Funded by the University through the Special Collections construction project, the construction was approved by Colette Sheehy, vice president for management and budget.
The approval to fund the $15,519 project was issued this past June, before the state's latest budget cutting requirements were announced.
Third-year College student Allison Klass is pleased with the new walkway.
"It's really convenient for me, and I'm sure first years will really appreciate it," Klass said.
Remembering back to her first year, Klass said she would not have enjoyed the extra stroll around the wall if in their place.
Fourth-year Engineering studentJohn Mell agreed about the convenience and was surprised the new door was allowed at all.
"I always thought it was a pain to walk around," Mell said. "But I thought they made you walk around for safety reasons."
And according to Coleman, University students are not the only happy campers. The library staff and parents of students love the convenience of the door too.
Parents and community members who don't know their way around Grounds have a much easier time getting directions, and faculty members no longer waste time walking around the wall during their lunch breaks.
Although the deck will come down when construction is complete, faculty members have agreed to revisit the issue of a convenient walkway to the new student space in Newcomb Hall, Coleman said.
Along with many others, fourth-year College student Lauren Gurganous would give a positive vote on the issue.
"I definitely dig the new door," Gurganous said. "The new access makes it easier and faster to get here."
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