Student Choice Awards 2014

Best Study Spot – Lawrence Public Library

Newly remodeled building gives students study options, resources

By Kansas Gibler, The BudgetDecember 17, 2014Leave a Comment

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Wide windows fill the Teen Zone at the Lawrence Public Library with natural light. Inside, students can find a cozy spot to play video games or hang out. The newly remodeled building opened in July.

Location: 707 Vermont St.
Hours: 9 a.m.–9 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, Noon-6 p.m. Sunday
Total votes: 389
Best known for: Books, movies, Teen Zone, recording studio, study rooms
Year established in Lawrence: 1854

As of July, city residents have had a new, more modern public library. Complete with meeting rooms, a gaming area and recording studio, the building is a free and educational place for the people of Lawrence to enjoy.

The library’s modern redesign and numerous amenities attract students for study sessions, Lawrence Public Library director of operations Sherri Turner explained.

“We want the library to be warm and welcoming to all kinds of people in the community, and we’ve tried to create a variety of spaces to meet those varied needs,” Turner said. “Sometimes people want to work alone, sometimes in groups, sometimes they want quiet, other times a bit more interaction. My guess is that the same is true for teens, and that’s why they like to come here. Plus, if they need help, our friendly staff is always nearby.”

The library’s many meeting and study areas allow for individuals and groups work in a calm environment.

“I go [to the library] to get tutored in Spanish,” Free State sophomore Ella Sullivan said. “I like all the things that are available for people to do.”

Since the $18 million remodel that Lawrence voters approved in 2010, the library’s atmosphere is no longer the dated building that it was. The former library was traded in for a large, open workspace.

“All the natural light and the beautiful design of the building make it a pleasant place to come to,” Turner said. “And we have coffee.”

People and families of all ages find places for themselves within the many areas of the library.

“To me, the Lawrence Public Library is so significant because it approaches reading and knowledge in a fun yet educational way,” Lawrence High sophomore Tehreem Chaudhry said. “Not only that, there is something for everyone. The library accommodates all sorts of people, which only makes it feel more like home.”

2nd Place: Dillons – 3000 W. Sixth St., 4701 W. Sixth St., 1015 W. 23rd St., 1740 Massachusetts St.

3rd place: Java Break – 17 E. Seventh St.

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