New study lounge to replace bookstore

In order to utilize an unused area that formerly held a university bookstore, a new lounge is being constructed in the Trabant University Center to create more space for students
Marilyn Prime, director of the University Student Centers, said Trabant does not currently have adequate space for students who are eating or doing homework and thinks the new lounge will alleviate that problem.

“We have a lack of student lounge space in Trabant. Perkins has a variety of different kinds of nooks and crannies,” Prime said. “Trabant doesn’t really have that.”
Prime said the new room will contain couches, chairs, coffee tables, a projector and a small stage at one end. She said the new space will also be able to hold receptions, unlike most university lounges.

While the lounge will be a place for clubs or organizations to meet, its primary use will be for additional seating.

“During lunch hour, I’ve got students sitting on the stairs, I’ve got students sitting on the floor, I’ve got students sitting on windowsills,” Prime said.

Sophomore Alexandra Cohl said she and other students often struggle to find places to sit when they visit Trabant. She said inclement weather can often cause overcrowding.

“If it’s cold outside, no one wants to sit outside,” Cohl said.

Prime said the design of the lounge will be different from the configuration of the bookstore and information desk, which were previously located where the lounge will stand. She said there will be an entrance where the information desk was, and glass walls stretching along either side of the doors and windows overlooking the food court.

Prime said she anticipates the project will be done before New Student Orientation in June.

Junior Sydney Andrews said she thinks the lounge will be a valuable addition because the building does not currently have enough areas to sit.

“There’s not really enough space for people in Trabant, so it would be good to have another place for people to go and hang out,” Andrews said.

Junior Caroline Dolente said she thinks the additional space it will provide for students to work, eat and socialize in a relaxed setting is needed.

“If I find myself in Trabant, I’ll probably take advantage of that,” she said.