Mitchell Memorial Library at MSU unveils transformed fifth floor

Mitchell Memorial Library at MSU unveils transformed fifth floor

Contact: Alyssa Edwards

STARKVILLE, Miss.—Mississippi State University Libraries has unveiled the newly renovated fifth floor of Mitchell Memorial Library, with the space transformed into a more comfortable, flexible and student-centered destination for studying and collaborating.

Raquel Mejia, a sophomore poultry science major from Myrtle, and Robert Moore, a landscape architecture sophomore from Hermitage, Tennessee, hold MSU school spirit signs this week during the welcome back event that unveiled the new fifth-floor space in MSU’s Mitchell Memorial Library.
Raquel Mejia, a sophomore poultry science major from Myrtle, and Robert Moore, a landscape architecture sophomore from Hermitage, Tennessee, enjoyed the new fifth-floor space unveiled this week in MSU’s Mitchell Memorial Library. (Photo submitted)

Students, faculty, staff and guests celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and welcome-back event this week. Attendees also had a chance to meet Dean of Libraries Lis Keith and connect with library faculty and staff.

The renovation expands the range and quality of student spaces, featuring 36 updated study carrels with increased privacy and convenient rolling chairs, eight soft-seating spaces with privacy walls, 19 couch-style seats and four additional chairs, along with tables throughout the floor.

MSU Libraries Associate Dean for Archives and Special Collections David Nolen; Assistant Dean for Technology and Operations Paul Huddleston; Dean of Libraries Lis Keith; and Associate Dean for Research Derek Marshall.
MSU Libraries leaders gathered this week for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark the official opening of Mitchell Memorial Library’s newly renovated fifth floor. Pictured, from left, are Associate Dean for Archives and Special Collections David Nolen; Assistant Dean for Technology and Operations Paul Huddleston; Dean of Libraries Lis Keith; and Associate Dean for Research Derek Marshall. (Photo submitted)

Five new reservable rooms give students more choices for how and where they work. Two group study rooms offer tables and seating for collaborative work, while two sensory rooms feature cushions, futons, dimmable lighting and ambient noise machines. A new testing room also provides dedicated space for students to complete Honorlock-proctored exams.

Library leaders extended special thanks to the Bagley College of Engineering for funding the new group study rooms and helping make the renovation possible. The fifth-floor transformation is part of MSU Libraries’ continuing commitment to creating spaces that support academic success, student well-being and a sense of belonging.

Mississippi State University is taking care of what matters. Learn more at www.msstate.edu.