Rowan employees and students attend a celebration that marks the beginning of Campbell Library's next chapter, Wednesday, July 13, 2024. The tentative date for the library renovation to be completed is the fall of 2025.

Campbell Library Bids Farewell to the Past, Looks Forward to a New Chapter

Wednesday, July 31st, 2024—Campbell Library marks the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter with the event “Embracing the Future: Campbell Library’s Next Chapter.” After almost 30 years of serving the Rowan community, the library is gearing up for a transformative renovation that promises to meet the evolving needs of its users.

When Campbell Library first opened in 1995, it was a state-of-the-art facility with modern furnishings, cutting-edge technology, and a mission to support students in their academic journeys. Over the years, it has become the heart of campus life—a place where students gather to study, collaborate, and find a quiet home away from home. Now, as the campus community and needs continue to grow, the library is ready to turn the page and begin a fresh, new chapter.

Students and staff gathered together to reminisce and share their fond memories of the library. Attendees wore shirts emblazoned with the slogan “On to the Next Chapter,” symbolizing the excitement and anticipation surrounding the upcoming changes. In a heartfelt gesture, attendees left messages of inspiration and cherished memories on the library’s walls, creating a living testament to the deep connection students and staff have forged with this space. These final words symbolize the closing chapter written by the people the library proudly serves.

Nancy Demaris, Interim Director of User Services and Collection Services; Access Services and Facilities Coordinator, reflects on the significance of the event:

“The gathering provided an excellent platform to engage with students and collaborators, establishing a roadmap for the library’s services amidst the refurbishment. It also allowed for a dialogue about the anticipated enhancements that are part of the renovation. As the adage I frequently quote goes, ‘It’s a brief disruption for a significant upgrade.’”

The celebration blended nostalgia with excitement for the future. As the campus community anticipates the changes ahead, Campbell Library eagerly awaits the return of students into the space, ready to embark on a new chapter, together.

For more information on services during the renovation, post-renovation Campbell, and why we are renovating, visit: go.rowan.edu/LibraryReno.