The Associated Students Senate met with representatives Friday from the Oviatt Library, to discuss the new Learning Commons, which is set to open Fall 2013.
“Construction has begun in small parts, but in June it will begin in earnest,” said Librarian Lynn Lampert.
The new commons area will include a permanent Freudian Sip in the lobby of the Oviatt, replacing the coffee cart that resides there. Lampert and her associate Coleen Martin presented their designs for the new study areas, which includes ergonomic seating, and lower bookshelves to enhance student views of the area.
“We’ve been hearing really positive feedback on our designs,” Lampert said.
Students will be able to rent laptops and tablets from the library and will be able to receive help from a new information technologies desk, as well as the standard references desk.
The Commons are set to open by Fall 2013, but students can keep track of the construction progress over the summer on the Oviatt’s blog.
“I don’t think we’ve had so much fanfare for the Oviatt since we rose from the earthquake,” Lambert said.
The blog contains a timeline of the construction and a gallery of designs.
The Senate also approved a number of resolutions to end the year, including the creation of a Matador Bicycle Shop, which would provide bikes and services to students in an effort to promote environmentally-friendly commuting.
“Currently there is the CSUN Bike Collective, who provides students with services,” said Sen. Jesus Martinez-Ramirez. “We think it’s important to establish this space for students.”
Based on a survey released during the A.S. spring elections, a majority of students are in favor of the bike shop.
Before adjourning her final meeting President Sydni Powell continued the tradition of “Passing the Gavel” on to Vice President Christopher Woollett. Graduating senators, or those not returning to the Senate, were offered a few minutes to thank their peers and offer advice.
“Take advantage of your time here,” Powell said. “You learn a lot about yourself.”
