Story by ADIA REYNOLDS Photos by PARKER NISBETH
Tiger Media Network
Forsyth Library, FHSU’s on-campus library for academic and leisurely reading alike, has been under construction since the 2024 fall semester. Construction is still on schedule for completion in the 2026 spring semester.
“Even major construction dates such as removing the stairs went well,” Instruction and Outreach Librarian Cyndi Landis said.
The Forsyth librarians have not flown the coop during construction, as certain librarians still operate from their offices in the Forsyth building, while others have moved to Custer Hall. Archival librarians in particular have stayed in Forsyth during construction to ensure that more delicate materials remain unharmed throughout the renovation.
Another unique aspect of the renovation is the live updates.
“We’ve kept people far more up-to-date than most other construction jobs I’ve been involved with,” Landis said.
The building was originally constructed in 1967. Photos of the original building, along with other updates on the construction, have been shared on both the official FHSU website and Forsyth’s Facebook page.
“We’re the focal point of scholarship on campus,” Landis said.
Forsyth librarians want to emphasize that while the physical building is closed for construction, the resources provided remain available. Technology Checkouts are still available, as well as the Media Lab where students can reserve a room and create recordings using the technology stored within.
Librarians can still provide books from the library if students place a reservation. Reservations for books or requests for interlibrary loans can be made through the Forsyth Library’s website, fhsu.edu/library. Ask a Librarian is available via LiveChat on their website, email, call, or text.
Forsyth has also begun a new student engagement initiative: lock boxes. These are puzzles available to anyone interested in a good brain exercise. Players solve the puzzle, unlock the box, and are rewarded with candies or small treats inside. The bags are then returned to the library and the cycle continues. The puzzle boxes allow the library to remain engaged with students, even when students can’t come directly to their doors for the time being.
Many of the libraries’ services and resources have also been relocated in the meantime. The Writing Center—where students can receive free essay tutoring—resides in Rarick Hall. The Honors College headquarters can now be found in the basement of Picken Hall. The Tiger Pantry has made camp in the Student Union. All of these resources and more are still currently available
While the library is not able to provide a study location while under construction, students looking to study outside the dorms have a few options still available. Rarick Hall has expanded its hours, offering nighttime and weekend hours which can be found posted at the main entrances. The Memorial Union and Fischli-Wills Center for Student Success is also open until 10 p.m., Monday through Friday. Off-campus, students can spend time at the Hays Public Library if they want to scratch the itch of being surrounded by books.
More information can be found at fhsu.edu/library and https://www.fhsu.edu/library
/spaces/renovation-status