"Welcome Back to Thompson"

Ohio State's Thompson Library is open after a three-year renovation designed to turn the 1913 building into a 21st Century academic center.

The renovation "transformed a weary icon into a stellar monument," says Raimund Goerler, interim director of University Libraries.

"I'm thrilled that the university finally has a library building that reflects the stature of the university itself as one of the leading public universities in the country."

With the new library, the university sought to create a place for scholars to learn in a variety of ways, whether quietly reading (the West Reading Room seats 124), studying over a quick meal (the library includes a 2,000-square-foot cafe), or preparing for group projects (a dozen group-work rooms are equipped with large screens). The library offers wireless access and plenty of wall outlets, so students can work on their laptops.

Highlights include:

• seating for 1,800--more than double the number of seats available before the renovation.
• more than 200 computers with Internet access.
• motorized window shades that automatically raise and lower depending on the time of day, weather, and sun position--a move that reduces energy consumption.
• Special Collections: the new library consolidates about 250,000 rare books in one central space.
• "green" elements, including use of renewable and recycled materials, use of daylight, and energy-efficient lighting and heating/cooling systems.