AU libraries expand services through nearly $5 million renovation projects

While libraries are normally known for being quiet spaces to learn and work, Augusta University Dean of Libraries Brad Warren admits he made an exception for the spate of construction sounds emerging from both Reese and Greenblatt libraries throughout the fall of 2023. 

Following the $4.9 million renovation project to the Robert B. Greenblatt, M.D. Library on the Health Sciences Campus, Summerville’s Reese Library recently underwent roughly $800,000 worth of upgrades, including:  

• the conversion of existing spaces, such as a former typing room, into additional study rooms 
• a full refresh of all group study room technology 
• drastic improvements to lighting on the third floor 
• fresh furniture 
• new carpets and new paint 

Warren said the Reese Library renovations took place thanks to a shared vision with Neil J. MacKinnon, PhD, provost and executive vice president for academic affairs at Augusta University, whose office funded the project. 

“The library is something we want to show off with the university, prospective students and people who are currently enrolled here, to say that this is a place they can hang out; it can be one of their favorite places,” Warren said. “In order to do that, it’s got to be a comfortable environment. It’s a significant investment, but at the same time, I think it provides a tremendous impact for the students that are using the space.”  

MaKaelyn Martin, a psychology student in the College of Science & Mathematics and member of the New Student & Family Transitions team, said studying at Reese Library helps her succeed in her courses.  

“It’s quiet, but not too quiet,” Martin explained, adding that she struggles with libraries where one can practically hear their own thoughts. “In Reese, there’s always something going on, so it’s a nice balance.”  

Fellow undergraduate student Andrew Todd, a kinesiology major and student-athlete on the men’s cross country and track and field teams, said he’s found value in Reese Library’s study room setups, which now have new screen-casting technology.  

“It’s really nice, if you’re working in a collaborative group,” Todd said. “There are plenty of study rooms, so you can use those to come up with great ideas for projects and have productive study sessions.”  

Greenblatt Library also doubled the number of group study spaces on its second floor, in addition to creating a one-stop shop for student support services.  

Just as the librarians across campuses are constantly evaluating and expanding book offerings on the shelves and online, Warren said he’s always looking ahead at new opportunities to provide more service to the Augusta community. 

“The library is, in my mind, one of the best ways that we can demonstrate our impact and is a service to the campus,” Warren said. “If someone says, ‘I need help, I need to go to Reese Library or Greenblatt Library,’ then I think we’ve done a great job.”