Renovation of the Thompson Library has been an ongoing process for the past three or four years. For most of the time, the university’s main library was completely closed for construction. It recently reopened while minor aspects, like instillation of computers, are completed. As a curious college student that spends absurd amounts of time (especially during summer) in the library, I naturally had to take a look.
Although architectural renderings and work in progress pictures have been posted on the library’s website, I didn’t expect anything similar to what I found. The library’s main tower is eleven floors, containing a vast majority of books and a few tables. The exception is the eleventh floor reading room, filled with tables, comfortable chairs, and large windows the provide views of campus and downtown Columbus. Although the top floor is incredible, I wouldn’t plan on getting any work done there; it’s far too noisy and I would spend too much time looking outside and too little time looking at my books.
Surrounding and connected to the main tower are four floors packed with study tables, comfortable chairs, and computers. Large and plentiful windows provide natural light and create an environment much better than the chaotic cave my apartment sometimes resembles. Probably the most remarkable area is the Grand Reading room, a huge area packed with study tables, a three story vaulted ceiling, and just an enjoyable atmosphere to study or read.
Despite all of these obvious advantages, I’m not sure that I can go back. The first time, I spent an hour and a half just walking around, and I know there’s no way I saw everything that the library has to offer. If I return, who knows how much time I’ll waste not studying.