Class of 1958 gift

Thomas Cooper Library is the University of South Carolina's intellectual heart, the preeminent place to study and conduct research. With more than 1 million visitors annually, the library is undoubtedly the most visited building on campus today. The Class of 1958 has an opportunity that will exemplify the legacy of the class and ensure proper recognition for achievements as distinguished graduates.

As you may know, Thomas Cooper is currently undergoing many exciting changes to meet the demands of students, faculty and staff. From labs with the latest technology, to collaborative study spaces and additional learning resources, Thomas Cooper is adhering to 21st century advancements. It may or may not surprise you to learn that today's students are more likely to flourish academically in spaces designed to complement their socialization skills.

Twenty-first century learners want to study as they socialize--they are already linked electronically with cellular phones, laptops and online networks such as Facebook. Though traditional libraries focus on individual work areas, we now need to provide our students with more current advantages.

Your generosity and vision will greatly impact one of the most challenging and important academic undertakings in one of the most distinguished locations on campus. Gifts from members of the Class of 1958 will enable the University Libraries to keep up with or surpass the first-rate state and private institutions that have begun to reconfigure library spaces in ways conducive to third millennium learning.

The Class of 1958 Collaborative Learning Laboratory Fund will enable the largest computer lab on campus to accommodate group projects, provide formal and informal learning opportunities, and create flexible spaces to support student needs. This new reconfigured learning space will accommodate more than 150 students at a time and make it easy for them to work and learn with their peers.

Laboratory Renderings:

Rendering 1 | Rendering 2 | Rendering 3 | Rendering 4

The goal for the 50th reunion gift project has been set at $100,000. The class will also be recognized with a bronze or stone plaque within Thomas Cooper, ensuring generations to come recognize and respect the generosity of alumni before them.

In addition, the 50th reunion gift will be presented to university president, Dr. Andrew Sorensen, during reunion weekend. Please make your gift to the Class of 1958 Collaborative Learning Laboratory Fund and remember, behind every donor stands a student with a promising future.