Renovation of Dunn Library Lights up Learning

The much-anticipated re-opening of renovated Dunn Library is earning rave reviews. A towering open atrium, abundant natural light throughout and creatively re-imagined study spaces have come together beautifully to spark a sense of awe.

“Whatever I had pictured for the new library could never have prepared me for what I saw the first time I stepped inside,” said Angel Schewe ’25, while speaking at the Dunn Dedication and Open House on Feb. 16. “The smile never left my face.”

Dunn now serves as the new home for teacher education, as well as the Center for Academic Resources (CARS) and Student Support Services (TRIO). It also features spaces devoted to prized physical collections and expanded access to e-books and digital databases. All three library levels are thoughtfully designed to create an enhanced and effectively integrated learning environment. There is also an outdoor patio by the south entrance, made possible through funding from Simpson’s Student Government Association.

“Everyone on campus is buzzing about this remarkable renovation,” said President Byers. “The innovative redesign further distinguishes Dunn Library as the hub for heightened academic excellence at Simpson — creating a vibrant, optimally connected environment for individual and collaborative study.”

Perhaps no one is more pleased about the Dunn renovation than Simpson’s longtime College Librarian and Archivist Cyd Dyer.

“When we opened the doors, the students came in and their mouths were just hanging open,” she said. “They couldn’t get around to the different learning spaces fast enough. I am so thrilled with the engagement of students — they are excited to be here.”

Simpson Board of Trustees Chair Terry Handley ’09 said the impressive results of the $10 million renovation reflects the efforts of a strong “Team Simpson” and its intensely faithful community of supporters.

“A project of this magnitude doesn’t come to fruition without sound strategy and planning, creative agility and a healthy dose of patience and perseverance,” said Handley. “And it certainly doesn’t happen without exceptionally generous support from our loyal benefactors.”

In particular, Handley acknowledged several major donors for their difference-making gifts: Donna J. Helble ’71 (deceased); Anna Hunt (deceased); Joyce Lillis and Terry Lillis ’77; Sunnie Richer; Dick and Judy Smith; Jim Reed ’53 and Lillian (Rydell) Reed ’53; Leon Langlitz ’80 and Denise Griffey ’79; and Trent Murphy ’90 and his late wife, Renee Murphy ’92.