JUST ASK. Librarian Craig Beard, watches as a student experiments with the computer system. The new computer system was only one of the improvements made to the library. Photo by Leslie Downs. FACELIFT. The newly built Brackett Library opens to the public. The library was a place for intensive study and research. Photo by Leslie Downs. Library Brackett Library New In '90 To the new students, the Brackett library was a convenient, comfortable place to read and study. But for students who returned for the Fall 1990 semester, the library was a treat. · When more room was needed, the library committee decided to spend $500,000 on a building program. The school hired Mr. Kaser from Indiana University who had assisted with the building of over 200 libraries to assess the reforms. Kaser reported that the library was not functional and did not meet the needs of the students. He then recommended that Harding construct a $2.1 mi llion library. Harding, wanting to provide the best for its students, agreed to meet the challenge. On the first day of spring classes, the students were surprised with the announcement by President Burks of a $1.6 million donation made by Mr. and Mrs. Robert L. Brackett of Vero Beach, Fla. to pay for the building. The library was opened to students in the beginning of the Fall semester of 1990. It was officially dedicated in a ceremony on Oct. 15. At the dedication Burks announced that the new library would be called the Brackett Library in honor of the couple and their dedication to the school. The library was a 43,432 square foot well lit and beautifully decorated building holding over five miles of shelves. It was also built ready for two additions, one which will begin in five years. Burks hoped to see the library become computerized in order to allow students "to have the benefits of a major research lobby within a smaller one." Burks hoped that one day students will be able to use their own computer systems to hook into the library system from their rooms, allowing 24 hour access. The Brackett Library proved to be a resourceful and attractive addition to the Harding campus and will continue to expand to meet the needs of Harding students as well as the city of Searcy. by Stacey Scott 260 Guided Impressions Winnie E. Bell , M.A.L.S. - P rofessor of Libra ry Science Suzanne Spurrie r, M.L.S. - Associate Professor of Library Science, Library Director Henry Terrill, M.S.L.S. - Associate Professor of Library Science Shirley Williams, M.S.L.S. - Assistant P rofessor of Library Science
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