By Terence Stewart

The first phase of renovations to Elihu Burritt Library should be completed by the end of May 2011, according to facility management officials.

The estimated $1,000,000 project will bring the circulation desk, reference desk, support offices and Jazzman’s Cafe to the first floor, making the ground level the main entrance to the library.

“We’re creating a new main entrance so from now on when you go to the library from the lower level, you’ll walk straight in and you won’t have to go upstairs,” said Facilities Management Director Sal Cintorino. “We’re about 70 percent completed right now. By the end of May it should be substantially complete. Students that are here in the summer will have the first opportunity to experience this whole new environment.”

The project will also give the library a much-needed interior makeover. Upon entering the library, patrons will notice the curved dome ceiling, modern furniture, new carpeting and flooring, contemporary lighting and 8 ½ feet glass walls.

Patrons will also enjoy other amenities. The entire library will have Wi-Fi access, there will be more desktop computers and laptop stands will be fixated to the walls.

In addition, patrons won’t have to worry about finding a place to sit or plug their laptop computers. There will be more tables and couches for patrons to study, including barstool-style seating. Electrical outlets will be placed all along the walls.

“The whole set up will first of all give functionality,” said Cintorino. “We’ve created much more usable space. There was a lot of dead space areas [before]. [The amenities] will be more beneficial for the students and bring a sense of comfort.”

According to Chief Administrative Officer Richard Bachoo, library officials are currently deciding how the second, third and fourth floors will be used.