As the construction of a new library progresses on the campus of Benedictine College, students continue to navigate college life without a central location to study.
The absence of a library on campus has not significantly limited students’ access to books or research materials, as digital resources are readily available online and can be accessed by phones and laptops. With the internet, it is easier and faster than ever to do research from the comfort of one’s dorm.
The real issue is not a lack of resources, but a lack of designated study spaces.
Mia DeBenedet, a sophomore biology major, describes the difficulty of finding a productive place to study on campus.
“It’s really hard when you have an extensive amount of work to do to find a place to go that’s outside of your normal classroom environment and is still academic and peaceful,” she said.
Without a dedicated library, there are limited spaces for students to study on campus. Students often rely on classrooms, although they can become dull and lonely after long days of classes. Additionally, places like Haverty Center and John Paul II Student Center frequently become crowded and too loud to focus.
This is especially true for Holy Grounds, the popular coffee shop located inside of Haverty Center.
“I feel like there’s a value to having a space that’s dedicated to studying specifically,” DeBenedet said. She shared that right now there are two options, either an academic building where you are all alone or a social place where it is easy to get distracted.
“A building is supposed to reflect what you do in it. Holy Grounds, Haverty and JPII are not designed to be an intensive study place. Even the academic buildings are designed to be classrooms. You’re more likely to get stuff done in a place meant for studying.”
Benedictine College President Steven Minnis has emphasized that this new library is intended to meet this need. It is a space for students to come together and be inspired to grow intellectually.
The highly anticipated library is set to open on July 4, 2026.
