During the summer, virtually all of the Trecker Library’s public furniture, and much of its signage, was replaced. Many of the worn items, which were sent to University Surplus in Storrs, can be seen in photographs of Trecker’s predecessor libraries dating as far back as the 1940’s making this event an important one in the history of our operations. That the “old stuff” lasted so long is a tribute to its manufacturers, our thrifty Yankee ways and, of course, the patience and forbearance of the Library’s users. That the high-quality replacements arrived on the scene is to the credit of University and University Libraries funders to whom we are deeply grateful.
Working with professional designers supplied at no cost to the University by the vendor, we explored a number of ways to make the Library more functional and more comfortable. Visitors will find new colors, seating of different types, tables of varied heights, and advanced capabilities in our spaces. Signage, designed and installed by UConn Libraries experts, now clearly identifies our group and quiet study rooms, delineates our policies and services, and points the way to our collections. A hanging lobby sign, the first in our 24 years at this location, helps new clients find our front door.
Judging by the number of visitors who linger at the library, instead of quickly leaving as in the past, our soft seating, revised and updated “parlor”, and other welcoming areas seem to be meeting needs which were once left unfilled.
For the many who are visiting, or will visit, the Trecker Library for the first time, some “now and then” photographs are illustrative:
A redesigned lobby area with new seating of different types and more open space:
Now
Then
Colorful tables and seating of various heights where ancient study carrels once were located:
Now
Then
State of the art computer tables at a central place which once housed file cabinets:
Now
Then
A “parlor” for relaxation, fellowship and study where reference librarians once worked:
Now
Then
New signs, greeting visitors arriving from either direction, near an updated service desk:
Now
Then
These, and many other, newly redesigned and refurnished library areas await your arrival — please come and enjoy them.
— William Uricchio, Library Director