During this past summer, major developments were made to Archbishop Riordan High School–one of the more noticeable transformations being the renovation of the library.
Director of Facilities, Brandon Ramsey, stated, “The hope was that not only can the space be used in all types of situations, but to provide an inviting and beautiful space that the students would enjoy daily.”
What initially drove this center of change was the upcoming need for new classrooms. The student body has grown from approximately 600 to 1,100 in the past four years. This increase has led to a proposed space that allows flexibility for academic purposes. The total costs of this renovation was $3.5 million.
Simon Chiu, Vice Principal of Advancement, stated, “The library was a big space that was underutilized.”
Keeping that in mind, the tech office and storage room were relocated downstairs. On the other hand, a new green screen room and A/V classroom were moved upstairs. This paved the way for the residual space to be classes.
Room 301 was specifically repurposed for the advanced video and telecast students to utilize. This room includes a digital lab where many can use the plethora of computers that have platforms such as Adobe Max, Photoshop, etc.
Room 302 became an additional classroom with a large display case for future house competition trophies and various awards across different sports. Outlining the right side of the room is shelving with library books.
What remains of the library is a study lounge at the center and a large seating terrace to the right of the entrance. Directly across from that is an overhead projector that allows students to watch presentations or educational films restfully.
Eric Dean ’25, a National Honor Society member who tutors in the library, commented, “It can be hard to find comfortable seating while also being in a configuration that teaching can occur effectively, but it is possible.”
Chiu elaborated that the new layout of the library was specifically designed for students who want the perfect balance between relaxation and study time.
Brian Kosewic ’16, English teacher, stated he always encourages his class to speak with Danny Appel, the library director, to get the full extent of the resources books have to offer.
Moreover, Kosewic expressed his hope for the area in the future by stating, “For most colleges, libraries are the centerpiece of the campus and the heart of academic life. We want Riordan to perform that same function and for students to be able to use it in the same way.”
