THE NEW GWC Learning Resources Center is now open.
By Andrew Wilkins-Smith
Western Sun news editor
From the shimmering expanse of the wide, towering windows to the stainless steel paneling straddling the facade, the new learning resources center at Golden West College is the most modern facility on campus.
With a $24 million budget, the center serves as an integration of various student resources that were once scattered across campus. The first floor operates as the student computer lab, writing center and tutoring center, while the second and third floors comprise the library.
Equipped with 12 office sized group study rooms, the resources center is the new hub for students looking for a quiet and efficient place to immerse themselves in all things academic. Each of the 12 study rooms are outfitted with a flat-screen TV, computer connection and Wi-Fi internet connectivity.
Measure C, a 2002 ballot initiative with emphasis on updating dilapidated or otherwise outdated campus facilities in the Coast Community College District provided funding for the center’s creation.
The $370 million bond measure, which asked taxpayers to pay $17 per $100,000 property value tax yearly is a stark contrast to the mired state budget. “The state budget has been forcing our district and individual campuses to make reductions in critical academic areas,” faculty adviser, Roxana Ross, said.
“Measure C allowed Golden West College to provide a multi-purpose, flexible facility to its students.”
Gregg Carr, professor and coordinator at the learning resources center mentioned the library excels in consolidating student services including the Accessibility Center for Education, a program designed for disabled students.
The library is now open Monday-Thursday 8 a.m. to 8:45 p.m. and Fridays 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The computer lab will be open Monday-Thursday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Fridays 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
