As we mark Olin Library's 40th anniversary, we have launched a series of initiatives to create a more dynamic and comfortable environment in the library. The renovation of the first floor allows us to integrate contemporary information technologies, the printed reference collection, and our public services.

Nearing completion in the spring of 2002, the renovation began last fall, when we introduced improvements to the first floor as well as new services, including:

• Libe Café
  
• Wireless network on the first floor, supporting RedRover
  
• Additional computing with new Personal Productivity Computers (with software such as MS Office) and Sun Ray terminals dedicated for library research
  
• Loaner laptops
• Self Check terminal for circulation

During December 2001 and January 2002, more improvements were made: Opening up the vista to the Arts Quad by lowering the height of the bookshelves, and reorganizing the reference collection to make it easier to find material Reconfiguring the physical layout to allow users more flexibility by creating both collaborative and individual workspaces Relocating the card catalog and the printed National Union Catalog to the lower level, adjacent to Current Periodicals Creating a quieter environment by laying down carpet and shifting to fee-based laser printing