Revamping the Armstrong Science Library: A New Era for Quantitative Learning
As the fall semester unfolds, students regularly visiting BiHall are well aware of the significant transformations occurring within the Armstrong Science Library. What was once a serene and book-filled environment has now become an energetic hub under a new designation: the Armstrong Quantitative Center, or “Q-Center.” This vibrant space is now bustling with students engaged in collaborative discussions around specialized tables equipped with whiteboards, tackling complex equations in chemistry or physics.
Transition and Closure Plans for Armstrong Library
According to Amy Morsman, Professor of History and interim head of the Center for Teaching, Learning and Research (CTLR), changes to the current facilities will culminate in January when Armstrong Library officially closes its doors. The ground floor — where shelves filled with books currently stand — will be repurposed to accommodate individual study carrels designed to provide quiet study spaces. Meanwhile, the main floor will permanently transition into a dedicated Q-Center identity. Materials that reside in Armstrong at present will be redistributed among Davis Family Library collections or moved into external storage facilities.
The decision to evolve from traditional library services stems from both low circulation rates of physical materials and an increasingly online-based preference among students for accessing academic resources. Morsman underscores this shift by noting how faculty members increasingly rely on journal articles housed in digital repositories funded by student tuition rather than content found solely within library stacks.
“I think many faculty members are utilizing databases that provide essential readings as part of their courses,” Morsman articulated. “It’s not as if everything housed at Armstrong is being discarded.”
Introduction of Q-Center: Enhancing Academic Support
The newly established Q-Center aims not only to support individual academic efforts but also focuses extensively on enriching quantitative learning across all disciplines. It serves both undergraduate learners seeking assistance outside class hours as well as faculty holding office hours aimed at boosting student comprehension in STEM fields.
Sean O’Neil has been leading operations at Armstrong for 14 years and emphasizes that while certain functions are changing, key characteristics remain intact; notably, lower-level spaces will still be designated for quiet studies amidst a collaborative upper area filled with interactive learning opportunities.
“Armstrong has always prided itself on its role as a tranquil study venue,” O’Neil remarked regarding his commitment to maintaining this reputation even amid transformation plans.
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Armstrong Science Library to Shut Its Doors Soon as Exciting New Quantitative Center Opens!
The Transition: Armstrong Science Library’s Closing Date
The Armstrong Science Library has been a cornerstone of academic research and learning for countless students and faculty members. However, it is set to close its doors on April 30, 2024. While this marks the end of an era, it also paves the way for a transformative opportunity: the grand opening of the new Quantitative Center.
What to Expect from the New Quantitative Center
The new Quantitative Center aims to integrate advanced computational and quantitative methodologies into the academic curriculum. It represents a significant shift towards enhancing analytical skills and data literacy among students. Here’s what you can expect:
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Equipped with the latest technology and software tools to support quantitative research.
- Workshops and Training: Regular workshops on statistical analysis, data visualization, and critical thinking.
- Collaborative Research Spaces: Designed to promote teamwork among students and faculty for multidisciplinary
Addressing Student Needs Post-Pandemic
The idea behind creating such a multifunctional space materialized after extensive feedback from faculty regarding how best to utilize what used to be called ‘Armstrong.’ In light of educational disruptions caused by COVID-19—where many high schoolers faced limited access—the new initiative intends specifically to bridge gaps seniors have voiced about lacking foundations particularly involving mathematics or other STEM subjects.
Morsman highlighted that generous donations have facilitated this endeavor; selected donors aim explicitly toward aiding those Middlebury students who may feel less confident navigating quantitative material.
“We aspire towards eliminating stigma around seeking help,” she elaborated further adding plans include workshops beyond simply assisting struggling Chem 103 attendees—for instance, hosting sessions dedicated explicitly towards data visualization techniques using Excel software which could attract significant participation,” she noted enthusiastically!
Building Community Through Collaborative Learning Spaces
Emily Malcolm-White serves dual roles as Interim Director for Q-Center alongside her position in Mathematics & Statistics Faculty—both driving forces behind shaping vision concerning collaboration methods available through these contemporary resources proactively expanding previously established frameworks thanks largely due Vice President Jeremey Ward’s leadership during initial stages coupled input directly arose from various community stakeholders including personnel across departments alike!
“It’s thrilling witnessing diverse support networks converge into single accessible areas where multiple needs—from mentoring academically-inclined disciplines through vocational exploration like career logistics—can flourish concurrently”, Malcolm-White expressed gratefully via email correspondence directed toward campus constituents!
In proximity located next door remains freshly constructed residence hall limits direct engagement points aiming foster connection opportunities benefit incoming cohorts acclimating swiftly surrounding mechanisms existing beyond strictly curriculum-focused advisement avenues facilitating inviting atmosphere overall calling forth collective participation actively contributing towards academic solicitation growth jointly fostering thriving community spirit amongst peers alike encouraging utilization highly anticipated facility future configurations likewise evolving continuously!
Editor’s Note: Contributions were provided by Managing Editor Madeleine Kaptein ’25.5 throughout development processes informing updates made here!
