Libraries Look Forward to Offering New Spaces, Services Next Semester

As renovation efforts progress, University Libraries staff are excited to announce a variety of new spaces and services that will be available on Levels 1 and 2 of Mullins Library during the fall 2024 semester. 

Augmented/Virtual Reality Lab and Rooms 
The renovated library will include an immersive and collaborative environment for augmented and virtual reality.  

“A variety of newer technologies continues to find application throughout society,” said Jason Battles, dean of libraries. “Faculty members have begun using these technologies in courses and programs across campus. As the central academic hub of the U of A, our AR/VR lab, maker space and video/audio production offerings will be the most accessible spaces for such technologies and available to students, faculty and staff of all disciplines.”  

Conference Rooms  
Colleges and units will once again have large spaces available for a variety of events, small conferences and performances. This includes a 2,500-square-foot event space with seating for 125-150 that can be configured for nearly any need.    

Fowler’s Nook Café 
The campus community has already expressed excitement about the inclusion of a café on Level 1 of Mullins, which was announced in October 2021. Funded in part by a generous gift from Chris Fowler, Fowler’s Nook will offer fresh, healthy food and beverage options.  

Prior to the renovation, all entrances to Mullins Library were located on Level 2. Work has already begun to create an entrance on the south side of Level 1, which will provide natural lighting to the floor and allow for the inclusion of an outdoor patio space adjacent to the café.  

“Students will have access to different food options and beverages while they study without having to leave the library,” Battles said. “This will provide a more encompassing environment that saves them time and prevents the need to search for another study spot upon returning to the building.”  

Maker Space 
A new maker space will provide highly interactive, hands-on teaching and learning experiences and will include technologies such as 3D printers, sewing machines and a vinyl cutter.  

Recording Studio Suite 
Spaces and equipment for professional audio and video recording will be made available as a result of the renovation. These spaces will allow the campus community to record music, presentations, lecture slides, videos, interviews, oral history projects and more​. The Recording Studio Suite will include a control room, audio recording studio, video recording studio and podcast recording booths.  

Upgrades to Special Collections 
The Libraries’ Special Collections Division houses rare and unique materials and makes them available to researchers worldwide. As a result of the renovation, Special Collections will have an updated Reading Room, dedicated classroom space, a modern preservation area and an expansive exhibit gallery. Arkansas Folk and Traditional Arts, a statewide program within the division, will have dedicated offices as well as a space for recording oral histories.  

“We’re excited to bring these inspired spaces and points of introduction to spark curiosity and interdisciplinary collaboration opportunities,” said Adriana Gonzalez, senior associate dean for Research and Learning. 

This story also appeared in the University of Arkansas News publication.