On behalf of Melville Library, I am responding to an article inStatesman published on Monday, February 16, 2004, ‘Why areSBU students unhappy? Part II’ by Mark Gold.

The author rightly points out that the furnishings and lightingin the book stacks need to be upgraded and improved upon. Fundinghad previously been requested to meet these needs and we willcontinue to seek funds next year to make the stacks brighter andfriendlier.

However, the Central Reading Room and the North Reading Room arein better shape than Mr. Gold describes. Renovation projects ofboth rooms in the late nineties included new carpeting and chairsand tables as well as repainted bookshelves and walls. In addition,the Music Library was completely renovated in a new location in theMelville Library and the Galleria was converted into a pleasantcaf’eacute; area.

On average, 3,000 people enter the two reading rooms every day.To keep the rooms clean and pleasant study areas, we haveimplemented a food and drink policy to allow only water inside ofall reading rooms. Other drinks and food should be consumed in theGalleria. We need the cooperation of students in keeping thereading rooms clean.

As usual, we welcome and appreciate your comments so that we mayknow how to serve you better.

‘

Sherry Chang

Associate Director of University Libraries

For Public Services