LIBRARY RENOVATION UNDERWAY ON THE BHSU CAMPUS

The E.Y. Berry Library and Learning Center on the campus of Black Hills State University, which was built in 1973, is undergoing a major remodeling and infrastructure update.

The Library building is now closed for the renovations and library services have been moved to the David B. Miller Yellow Jacket Student Union. Books and resources have been relocated and are available by request. Einstein’s Bros. Bagels has also been temporarily relocated to the Student Union.

Construction will begin in the next few weeks and the renovated library is expected to be ready by the start of the Fall 2022 semester. Bids for the project came in lower than expected at $6.7 million. A local company Ainsworth-Benning Construction, A Journey Group Company, was awarded the construction project.

After nearly 50 years, the campus library was in need of functional upgrades and to keep up with the demands of today’s educational needs according to BHSU President Laurie Nichols.

“This renovation will change the library, placing a greater focus on one-stop help for students and co-location of student services to greatly enhance student success,” Nichols said. “Libraries continue to evolve to meet student needs. This visionary plan allows our library to enhance their information services by utilizing technology in an even more significant way. As library resources move online, it opens the door to revamp the main floor into a student success center for students with tutoring, math/writing assistance, academic advising and career services, all within feet of each other. In addition, collaborative and group learning spaces will be enhanced.” She noted that the design is aesthetically pleasing using natural lighting and provides exceptional views of the surrounding Black Hills.