In February 1953, the Edmon Low Library building opened its
doors for the first time. Since then, the Library has served generations
of students, and its distinctive and graceful image is often used to
represent the University as a whole. This school year marks the 50th
anniversary of the opening of the building and to commemorate this golden
anniversary, the Library is holding a yearlong celebration.
The theme of the anniversary year is That was Then, This is Now. Suzanne Thompson, Library Director of Development says, "Our programming
this year will highlight the many changes over the last fifty years. Our
focus is on library services, collections, technological advances and new
challenges facing the Edmon Low Library in the 21st century."
Celebration Goals
According to Thompson, the Library has three major goals for the
celebration year. "First, we want to increase the visibility of the
Library. This facility not only provides the traditional avenues of
support and materials for the entire campus community, but patrons are
always invited to participate in our many programs. From poetry readings
to exhibits, the Library always has something going on. We offer so much
more than just books, and we want to educate the community about all that
we offer."
"Second, we want to recognize and salute our Library employees, both past
and present. Their expertise and help are what makes our Library one of
the best libraries in the Big 12 Conference. We are trying to locate past
employees so they can be part of this celebration. We are also very
interested in capturing stories about their library experience."
"Finally, we're launching a campaign to raise private donations for much
needed renovations and modernizations of the building. When you compare
the needs of students fifty years ago to the students of today, you see
that standards and expectations have changed tremendously, especially in
regard to technology. We have received feedback from students and alumni
about how we can better serve the students of the 21st century and are
looking forward to incorporating these suggestions into the Library's
plans."
Special Events
The 50th Anniversary kicked off with the annual H. Louise and H.E. "Ed" Cobb
Speaker Series last November. "The 2002 and 2003 Cobb Speaker Series are
the 'bookends' of the celebration, but we have much more planned," says
Thompson. "There will be activities and programs for the community,
alumni, donors, faculty, and students. We want everyone involved."
On February 24 at 2 p.m., the Library will host a rededication ceremony to
commemorate the anniversary. The new Chancellor of Higher Education, Paul
Risser will give brief remarks, and President Schmidly will be the keynote
speaker. "We've planned a festive event. The OSU Choir will perform and
punch and cake will be served after the ceremony. We hope everyone the
Library serves, students, staff, faculty and the community can come," says
Thompson. This event is free and open to the public.
For information on upcoming events, call (405) 744-7331 or visit
http://www.library.okstate.edu/ and watch for future issues of Perspectives.
Info provided by Bonnie Richardson cbonnie@okstate.edu
