No abstract

M urphy Memorial Library undertook a modest renovation project during the 2007-2008 school year. The library serves Baptist Bible College and Seminary in Clarks Summit, Pennsylvania. The library occupies part of the lower two floors in the main academic building. The first-floor library holds most of the library's volumes, staff space, and circulation counter. The second floor contains the reference collection, quiet study space, and periodicals. Space in the library was originally configured for individual study. While some tables for group work were present, the library's space on the second floor was dominated by thirty-six study carrels. Attendance data indicated a declining level of usage of the library's facilities over the years 1998-2007, with the second floor in particular showing very little usage in the most recent years. In addition, the overall appearance of the second floor library was compromised by old, faded carpet and dated light fixtures. No major renovation had previously been undertaken in the library. Some minor modifications, such as addition of doorways, rearrangement of equipment, etc. had occurred as the library absorbed additional spaces in the main academic building, but no significant projects were completed since the institution moved to its current campus in 1968.