Dana Biomedical Library’s Challenges

Entrance Broken pavers; unsightly, uneven footing

The front door is not handicap accessible

The nominal handicap entrance No parking Rough terrain for wheelchair Doors are heavy to open No automatic door opener

Poor study space Wedged into the stacks on the second floor

1 of only 4 small group rooms

Carrels are old, poor condition

A student spreads out and studies all morning, then comes the afternoon sun and she cannot see the laptop screen, and the blinds will not close— and she has to move.

Window treatments

Single-pane windows

Climate Control It’s Freezing It’s Too Hot

Lack of power outlets extension cords everywhere

No climate control whatsoever uncomfortable for studying, hot in the summer, cold in the winter

The elevator is too small for an ambulance gurney to fit into

Elevator is ancient and slow 1963

Flooring on first floor Marked, stained, and dented

Third floor carpet is worn through

Paint problems Peeling paint Asbestos-skimmed columns

A second floor office Barely wider than the doorway Distant from users

Basement office An unattractive work environment

Staff room The sink is narrow and does not drain well, the oven and burners are old

Check out the plumbing

Sink does not drain

Missing parts

General upkeep Grouting on the Gilman-side entrance