About the Forrer Learning Commons

A “next-generation library,” the John Kenny Forrer Learning Commons goes beyond books to be a workshop for learning. Students, faculty and the community create, explore, learn and communicate in flexible study spaces outfitted with the latest in technology.

In this renovation and expansion of The Alexander Mack Memorial Library, students find a “one-stop shop” for all their learning needs. At the first-floor Morgridge Center for Collaborative Learning and its concierge desk, students connect with technology support, the Writing Center, Center for Career Development, media production assistance, peer coaching and tutoring, research support, and more. Everything they need to learn, grow and meet their goals is at their fingertips.

Quiet study areas and The Alexander Mack Memorial Library Collection, with its myriad volumes of books and journals, is complemented by group meeting spaces, a presentation practice room, and engaged learning classrooms. The Mary Morton Parsons Foundation Study Area, Smith Family Café (aka Smitty's), Robert H. ’59 & Mary Susan King Portico, Class of 1969 Great Room, and Beverly Perdue ’68 Art Gallery offer a variety of opportunities for engagement and enrichment.

Indoors and outdoors flow seamlessly, with walls of windows to let in light and stunning views of the hustle and bustle of the Campus Mall. Outside areas including Alison’s Reading Terrace and the Wampler Family Plaza allow the activity of the Forrer Learning Commons to spill outside, where students and faculty can read, dine, and interact with one another.

This is not your old library. This is the Forrer Learning Commons.