Student Government Association President Matt Ryan updated the student body on the proposed renovations to Pius XII Memorial Library, much to the relief of some students who use it.

“I’m glad they are making changes because the heating and cooling really needed to be looked at,” Junior Grace Karcher said. “And the furniture is getting quite shabby.”

Karcher’s opinions echoe issues students raised in surveys SGA conducted in May and September of 2010. Along with improved heating and cooling systems, the survey results called for “a significant increase in total seat count, more outlets, increased wireless bandwidth, additional group study rooms and better lighting,” Ryan said.

Students also expressed interest in a new entrance into the library from West Pine Mall, Design and Construction Manager David Florek of Facilities Services said. Ryan said that SGA’s goals for library renovation are centered around increasing the amount and quality of student study space.

In addition to an email to the student body from SGA regarding the renovations, samples of potential new furniture were set on display on the third floor of the library. Students were encouraged to vote on which pieces they enjoyed best via a page on Facebook.

The planned renovations are scheduled to begin in early May and will be completed by early August of 2012, Library Director David Cassens said. Along with the library, renovations to the heating and cooling are expected to improve the environments of DuBourg Hall and the Samuel Cupples House.

Florek said that funding for the renovations has not been decided, and that design and construction is still in the process of deciding a cost for the scope of the work involved. Ryan said students are responding positively to the selections.

“I thought it was cool. The library was getting really outdated, so I’m excited to see the new renovations,” junior Fallon Lott said. “I’m hoping for a quiet relaxing place to do my papers and projects.”