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Main Floor Feedback

The main floor renovation is complete. Here's what people are saying about the floor so far.

 

Anonymous comments :

"Love the availability of computers and work spaces. It seems more spacious and efficient."

"Overall I would say that the renovation is quite a welcome improvement! I like the new computer terminals, window space, overall design aesthetic, and especially the sliding doors (top of my list). The gray expanse, however, as you walk in is rather featureless and plain. You ought to stick a giant University of Waterloo emblem on the floor or something! At least it might help school spirit. Oh, and as always there needs to be more computers. I'm thinking in the unused space that still remains unexploited in front of the circulation desk. The stapler and hole punch are very much appreciated :)"

"The new lighting features are great. Just make sure that you maintain them and replace the bulbs when they burn out or it will look terrible. Two other things: a lot of the computer keyboards are disgusting and really slimey, and it's difficult to type; and the garbage facility at Browsers that's built in to Graphics is pretty much a failure because its too small. Its kind of obvious since the huge yellow garbage bin was brought in anyways."

"Chairs are scratching the floors!"

"I really like it, especially the new chairs...there should be more chairs like that through out the library and the university."

"It's very spacious and modern."

"I love it !!! I'm glad you left the single study desks near the window. That was my favourite place to study in first year."

"I like the computer area much much better than the one that we previously had (less computers (most often didn't get a chance to use any because of so much crowd there), had to stand while using them so it was very uncomfortable). I also like the cafe area, its very nice how they now have an extended sitting area facing outside the library. The only thing that I don't like is the floor; maybe it's the texture or something is wrong with it, it looks very old (as if it needs renovation) and I don't like the colour either."

"Okay."

"It seems cold, but a better layout! Took long enough! There should be better computers for an advanced university like ours! The internet is the most frustrating-it should be faster!"

"It's amazing!!"

"The new set-up of the floor looks great. There are lots of computers for students to use. The printer system, however, does not work well. My printing job have not once come out properly and I always need assistance and a refund of printing money."

"In renovating the new floor, did you make serious environmental and energy efficiency considerations? It looks nice, but it would be even better if the designers could have incorporated a forward thinking design approach and had the renovations be environmental in their nature."

"Really nice!!"

"Very nice. Having more than one entrance would be even better."

"The extra computers are great. I like how easy it is to hook up a laptop almost anywhere on the main floor (except for the cafe, which is sad), and how the tables face windows. The black, gray and red colour scheme isn't all that great though. When you're a stressed out student, the last thing you want to be confronted with is an angry colour scheme and a cold stone floor. The large windows and comfy chairs do kind of make up for that though. But yeah, pick more relaxing colours next time."

"I really like the renovations. I like that the windows make it a much more pleasant space."

"It is quite nice."

"Too much very good. I feel like I am in Toronto."

"Snazzy."

"Unlike Waterloo (very nice)."

"It is the most pretty part of the entire UW campus. Good job."

"I love the new layout! The library looks like it reflects the quality of education available here at UW. However, the main floor, especially by the windows, is rather cold. I find myself sitting in a hat and mittens just to study."

"Amazing layout. Highly enjoy lounge area; more comfortable study area."

"Related to floors 4 and up: the air on these floors is stagnant and almost suffocating. Ventilation system is obviously not working at all or has to be enhanced. No windows=dead students."

"Too open, could be more seating in main entrance area."

"Bring back the bulk section @ Browsers!"

"Excellent, especially the lounge seating area & coffee shop!"

"Please bring back the bulk candy to the Browser's Cafe. It is good for long studying hours!"

"GREAT! Please buy an ashtray for outside!"

"Amazing! I never used to come in here and now it's my second home. Love it!"

"Love it. Love it. Love it."

"It has better lighting. Better air quality. Better Signage. Easier [?]."

"It looks amazing! Did a really great job, but the internet on the main floor computers is painfully slow."

"It's great! I love it! Nice coffee shop, cosy chairs to chill out, after a few hours of studying on the 10th floor! Well done :)."

"Love it. Much more convenient with the extra computers. Much brighter & fresher! Could you renovate the whole library?"

"FANTASTIC. Please continue all the way up!"

"Looks nice. When will the other floors be done :)."

"I really, really like it. It's well structured & looks great. What I miss a little bit is a possibility to buy drinks when the coffee place is closed. Thank you :)."

"Awesome! More comfortable & nice working and relaxing environment! Thanks UW!"

"Pretty."

"It looks great. Thank you. However, most of our studies occur in the upper floors. We need new chairs and new desks. Don't forget the upper floors."

"LOVE IT :). Well designed. More spacious/open, better access to plugs/tables!"

"The lighting is so depressive, especially at night time."

"Walking in, it's all ooh & ahhs. Very modern, I think is the best word for it. The ceilings seem higher too, so the area seems bigger, which is nice. I have two concerns: The new library seems colder now...the colour schemes or perhaps lack of carpet make the new library entrance seem less warm. So, the floral arrangements are appreciated and I would suggest the addition of green accents, to have more plants in the lobby. My other concern...when I first heard that the carpets would be replaced with tiles, I was very happy. The stand-up kiosks/terminal attracted huge salt circles/stains under people's feet in the wintertime. So with tiles, cleanup would be much easier & not sustain such a mess. Thus I was disappointed when I saw the carpet started right where the kiosks are. It is a shame such nice new carpets might get dirty so quickly this winter. During the opening ceremonies, I spoke with a volunteer and she explained it is predicted people will not stand/stay long at the kiosks, so it may not be a problem. But I still think it's enough time (some stay longer too) for snow to melt, along with salt. Overall, I am very pleased, it is beautiful. The circulation desk is lovely, a great overall change in space. Thanks also for a nice opening ceremonies/Library Day celebration."

"It's really nice! A few more chairs in the front by the window & group study space would be nice, but not absolutely detrimental without it. LOVE the automatic doors! Also, glad there are more outlets now."

"I love it! I can just imagine the amount of work that went into fundraising and coordinating the efforts behind these renovations. Thank you so much!"

"The floors look REALLY dirty."

"It looks cleaner and very open (maybe too empty looking). Dislike: automatic sliding doors--what's wrong with opening a door? What a waste of energy!"

"Having some ergonomic training I'd like to comment on the excellent choice of computer chairs. Good job :)."

"It is awesome! Totally impressed. It is so much more modern! Hope upper floors change too."

"Very nice--like the open concept design--feels less stuffy than the previous layout. Pleasant colour scheme as well."

"I like it. :)"

Wonderful, I like it so much!"

"It is great. Looks awesome. But please there should be a law in place that prohibits students to move furniture around. Thank you."

"It's amazing, so much more room for students. Please renovate the remaining floors."

"It is very nice, like the design, but could have more plants (hanging, crawling plants)."

"Wow! Cool! Different!"

"It looks like a spaceship :). Pretty modern, very cold (temperature). It's something different overall."

"I love it but I think it needs more of those comfy chairs there are never enough."

"The main floor is missing at least two tables that can seat 6 people per table. They are needed to look at the reference books and encyclopaedias. After the renovation, the tables have been removed and many personal computer desks and study carrels fill the main floor. Those who are doing research and looking at reference books have no place to sit and look at their material. We need those two tables back. How can you have many aisles of reference books and no place for a student to look at them in the same floor. All the computer desks are meant for looking up information, and they are always occupied. We need some long study tables, these same tables served for looking at reference material. Often the reference books are big and heavy and require careful handling. Careful handling and holding of these books is not possible to achieve if a person is standing up and has no place to put the books down on, or a place to sit. How could this be overlooked? This is both a comment and a complaint. I will submit a complaint to the administrators those who were in charge of the renovation. A library needs common tables also for looking at in library reference material-books, journals, encyclopaedias. The main floor no longer feels like a library but a mall cafeteria, and internet cafe. I will not want to return to do work in the main floor library, if the tables are not fitted in somewhere in the main floor."

"It is very nice and much more appealing as a place to study. Before the renovations, I rarely went to Dana Porter, but now I go there much more frequently! The major appealing factors are the power outlets and ethernet outlets available."

"I think it's beautiful and very exciting. I've always loved DP but now I love it even more. Very functional. This type of renovations should be done to all floors."

"Looks great, I like the desks w/ plugs on top and the increased number of computers."

"Cool, but the new design has not solved the noise problem. As I type this, there are three separate, full volume conversations going on within 5 meters of me."

"The smell of the painting hasn't gone yet; in spite of that, this is the best library in the school."

"I think it's too much. It does not have that comfortable feeling anymore. My first impression was that it looked like a restaurant. I think school could have used that money to upgrade other things (ex) replacing all the tables in the centre in DC with power and internet plug."

"I really like it. I think it has nice lines, and adds a modern touch to the library. I'm hoping they do the rest of the floors like it!"

"I love it! It feels really comfortable and it looks professional!"

"It's ok, it's rather stale to be honest. It needs a more 'home' like feeling and less industrial/modern."

"Love it."

"Looks like an airport terminal."

"Awesome, it makes more space for students, more computers, more printers and the best is the space for us to sit, read. And the organization of whole floor is way much better than before. I love the way it looks now, much better!!!"

"I like it! (the chairs are too comfortable though) :)"

"There are a lot of issues with printing. It was much better to have printers on the 3rd floor as well to spread out the traffic."

"I like it! the whole building should be renovated!"

"I think it is great - I love the new computer work stations and the the comfortable chairs by the windows. It looks sleek and modern and yet comfortable. My only complaint is that since the weather has turned cold it is always cold on the main floor to the point that I have to wear my winter coat indoors."

"I think it looks nice, but I keep wondering what's going to happen all the other floors."

"It seems a bit cold, clinical. I think brighter colours would have worked better, and I miss a carpet on the floor."

"It's very nice, I like the group collaboration computers, that's a great idea. The glassy wall is also neat with all of the different languages. The main area...the massive grey floor...it's a bit...not nice. Someone should paint a few of the tiles a deep red or something, it loses a lot of atmosphere from that big grey stretch."

"Nice and open! Finally, much of the floor is open for public use. The old layout consumed a huge amount of floor space just for offices."

"I find it shameful that this is what my tuition dollars are spent on. There was nothing wrong with the Dana Porter library before all of the construction that shut down most of the library for over a term. Needless to say, the construction was inconvenient, likely very costly and overall, completely pointless. Considering how little funding the Drama department and some other departments at this university get, I'm surprised the "powers that be" can sleep at night spending all of that money on what appears to be purely aesthetic changes to the library. What a tragic waste."

"Very clean & classy."

"Money could have been better spent elsewhere."

"A Gimmick for prospective students."

"I think it looks great and is very functional."

"I want free ear plugs."

"My feelings are mixed - I like the new look of the library, but at the same time I feel like something essential may have been lost. I hope that the staff will continue to provide the same comfortable atmosphere that students need in order to do their work, and to decrease the amount of heavily distracting noise that seems to pervade many of the floors that students are trying to work on."

"You spent 3 million dollars on a renovation, yet you will start charging for ear plugs? Ridiculous."

"I really really like it. Although I haven't seen the "old" main floor, but the new one is very comfortable and well structured. But, just to make a suggestions, you could really need an ashtray on the outside of the library."

"I love it! My only wish is that there were more tables for individual silent study. Otherwise, awesome improvement!"

"I don't like cheap materials or modern looking, trying-to-be-minimalist-but-not actually-being-functional. The main floor will look bland in less than ten years. Wood is better. It's done now though, so complaining is useless. In the future do a better job and make it look less cheap."

"Get rid of the wasted space! Put in more of those sick computer workstations with the booth!!!!!!"

"Awesome!!"

"I feel like this must have been very expensive. Although it looks very nice, it is no more functional then the old library, in fact the layout looks much the same. It just seems like a needless, and frivolous expense."

"The computer spaces are awesome! So much space."

"Finally get our money's worth."

"Amazing job. This is exactly what an internationally acclaimed university's library should look like. Very well done."

"I think it looks nice! But we need more places to sit! & maybe more colour to the place... but overall it is very nice :)"

"It is a piece of art from one point, but I have something to say, there should be more respect to the word library...I feel all libraries are like a park, too much noise, and cell phones everywhere."

"It's great! My favorite place to study now. Great facilities, including nice layout with a lot of computer terminals. I wish there were more group tables though!"

"I think it looks good. My only negative comment is that there were no bathrooms placed on the main floor."

"The computers don't work anymore... It takes almost a minute to load pages now. It's been that way ever since the renovation. So looks good but unusable? About sums it up."

"Its guude. Nead moer dictioniaries tho."

"I have environmental allergies - I think the area looks great - except I can't stay in it for longer than walking to the elevator or signing out a book. I get very ill. :("

"Awesome! Professional."

"It's sick."

"Other than more recent decor, there seems to be little change to the previous set-up of the library. Are there any more computers or seating areas? Moving the circulation desk was a good idea because now there's a lot more natural light available to students: the one benefit to the "new" design. Overall, though, for what's there now, I think that any money spent on changing things to the way they are now would have been more productively spent on Porter's infamous collection of "Missing" books."

"I haven't seen it yet. Is it done? There should have been some kind of notification for students."

"It is very aesthetically pleasing, although I think because of the flooring and the open concept it creates a cold feeling. I feel that I have to go to the upper levels just so that I will feel warm since I'll be surrounded by more walls than windows."

"I think it's great! Floor is a little slippery though..."

"It looks nice but I miss the candy bar."

"Too modern. Ew. Nice facilities."

"It looks amazing!"

"The internet is so slow and never works on laptops. "

"Very very nice, but could use a better cafe."

"It's nice but it's better if a washroom can be built on the 2nd floor."

"Very nice."

"It's nice, but the big open space in the lobby seems a bit unnecessary perhaps even wasteful. I suppose it leaves room for growth. Why are there no bathrooms?"

"Really great!"

"I think it's a nice design but it lacks something. It doesn't feel like a library, more like an office foyer or a government building like the job bank."

"I think it's so awesome. I feel like home here!!! I absolutely adore it. I think they should renovate and make libraries look cute because this will help students study more. Trust me!!! I mean it! Thanks so much for making our library pretty."

"More computers needed!!!! A lot of wasted space! And the internet is insanely slow!"

"It's awesome. It feels very welcoming."

"It seems like the space could have been used more effectively without sacrificing aesthetics at all. Getting rid of/reducing the 'open look' could have significantly increased the number of computer terminals and study space available. I do like the computer terminal desk dividers that are on some of the desks."

"I love all the new computers, and the work stations. The only question I have is that it feels like there is a lot of wasted space in the front area, could that area have been used to make a bigger coffee area?"

"I am so happy Lib is open again; 2nd floor is my 2nd house...I love the new layout. Thank you for renovating it!!"

"It looks great and flows so much better. There is lots of room for meeting groups. The internet on the main floor computers is painful slow. why is it soo slow. it is meant to be a quick way to look stuff up (ie books, profs email etc) but it actually takes so much longer."

"It's very nice."

"Cool."

"It looks clean, well organised with lots more available space for sitting down."

"I appreciate all efforts and time taken to renovate the main floor. It is very beautiful and comfortable. It would be greatly appreciated if you could increase the number of tables and chairs if possible."

"It's very nice. I like the modern look & feel. I find the internet connection a bit slow. And I wish there were more desks for people with laptops."

"It's nice, I guess. It seems more open, which looks nice and is welcoming, but maybe it's too much wasted space. Are there more or less computers? It seems like less, but I'm not sure. The new seats are really nice - it's nice to have more space to sit near the windows. Mostly, I hope it's more convenient for the library staff, since they are the ones that actually have to work there, but I can't offer an opinion on that. I suppose right now they're just glad to be out of that basement, and I'm just glad I don't need to go through 5 heavy doors to get into the library anymore."

"You need to turn on the heat--it is too cold down here. Also a common microwave for the use of students should be considered where we can heat up our lunch or coffee, etc."

"Inviting, open, bright--when is the new look & signage coming to the other 9 levels?"

"Looks great but where did the study rooms go? Are there less computers on the main floor now?"

"Great. Modern, nice style. Good job!"

"Amazing. Looks how all UW should, new and flashy. Love more computers. Love hole punch. Very impressed!"

"WiFi signal is really bad in the new sofa area."

"You should do the same for the rest of the 9 floors."

"Awesome!!"

"Completely shitty."

"Inefficient use of space."

"Open, refreshing. Clutter-free."

"Cold near the windows, brrrr!"

"Very beautiful. I love the new coffee area. It would be nice if the stools were back in front of the long table in front of Browsers though."

"Gay."

"The new floor looks nice. It's a nice change from previous. Although, was it necessary? I don't really see more places to study. The new computers are nice."

"It is mad hype!"

"Smells like poison."

"Very modern, very clean. I love it! It feels welcoming and looks like a great place to study. Sophisticated."

"Amazing! When will the rest of the library look this way? I think putting money into one floor and not following through with the other floors makes the library look REALLY outdated!!!"

"Really cool."

"I feel like I'm at a different university... everything is new!"

"Frankly, I can't say I like it. It looks like Times Square, there's a lot of wasted space... and I miss the big silent study tables...they were very practical and I liked them. I like the old DP.... I think you should shift everything closer to the door and put the big silent study tables back there again."

"It would have been better to have more sitting areas!"

"Great job, very eye-pleasing style and good colour combinations. Just one suggestion - there is one large round table with a large computer screen next to circulation desk - it would be great to have more than just one of those so more than one team could work at at time. Cheers and thanks for your work ."

"I think it is very sleek and modern. I enjoy it very much."

"It looks great. BUT the internet connection is REALLY slow, to the point where it makes it impossible to be productive because you have to wait so long for pages to download."

"Overall it's all right, but I don't like the way the ceiling curves down. It's a little oppressive, and makes me feel off-balance."

"Looks great... needs more faster computers... "

" I love it."

"Gangster! (Queen's is still better.)"

"Great but internet is extremely slow on this floor compared to other floors on DP. Also we need more computers and desks especially next to the wall left of the entrance."

"Love the natural lighting!!! Love studying here day or night. Gets noisy sometimes...Needs more computer stations maybe?"

"Beautiful but needs some more plants."

"Awesome! But more study tables are needed i.e. group tables."

"Great, washroom on main floor would have been nice!"

"Excellent renovation but MORE PRINTERS and computers for student use!!!"

"Lack of computers. Poor wireless signals. Nice looking though."

"Wireless Internet has not worked at all. PDF files never print or take too long."

"You need EXPRESS computer stations on this floor! People spend hours at the stations. Wanted to check ACE--had to go to several floors."

"Much brighter & more inviting. More usable space for students."

"It's nice but not enough room! We need more tables & chairs! Need to accommodate more students!"

"It needs more computers."

"Beautifully done. It's a great new study environment. Both aesthetically pleasing and quite functional to say the least."

"Make the basement a quiet zone. It pretty much already is except for a few inconsiderates. Put up signs.
P. S. main floor is good."

"The floor makes me a bit dizzy."

"I love it! It looks beautiful & promotes a good working environment."

"I really like how open & bright it is. The blue leather chairs are a nice touch. Looks great!"

"Love it! So spacious, airy and bright."

"SHNAZZY!"

"A lot of wasted space in front of the main entrance--could have been used for more computers or couch area. Overall it's good."

"Main foyer large clock!"

"11/10. Easy to focus and stay motivated. Physically appealing. Practical. Comfortable. Generally just better than before. Thank you."

"Impressive! Well done!"

"F'ng sweet."

"Eh, lame. Too flashy. Needs more computers! Not enough functionality."

"Too slippery when snowy days come."

"The computer workstations are way too comfortable that people don't leave when they finish, or they just stay for a day. It's hard to find an available workstation to get emergency use."

"Awesome!"

"I can't believe how poor it looks for an entire summer's worth of inconveniance. What a waste of money and time. Too modern, no character. Smelly & dark. Lame."

"INTENSE! Red is unsettling. Where is your consistency? The top floors should match too."

"Very nice. I'm happy it's finished before my midterms."

"Sexy! Let's re-design the upper floors, now they look drab!"

"Looks very professional. Spacious. Very nice!!"

"I would pay rent & live here if it was alllowed."

"Very nice! Love the open concept. Much easier to find what you need. Lighting is great. Love the seating areas."

"Good, but need more comfy sofas instead of leather chairs."

"Wow--great! Need more study desks though!"

"Sexy."

"The look is great. I like the new layout. It is more efficient for everyone. I think there should have been more workstations for group work."

"It looks modern. The choice of colour for the flooring makes the main floor feel cool and less inviting. But overall it is ok."

"Great! Now PLEASE reno the rest of the floors!!! Or at least get new furniture."

"It rocks!!!"

"AMAZING!"

"Better."

"More round booths would have been better. A lot of unused open space in the front foyer. Slippery floors in the winter. More single study tables & chairs by tables."

"Lots of wasted space in front of elevators and info desk."

"Good choice of colours. Need way more group study tables & laptop stations! Too spacious, more couches would help...such as the 1 booth style table on the left."

"AWESOME."

"Wonderful. Needs more chairs."

"Overall it is great."

"Why did you spend so much money? Don't you think of us? What next, piece of art?"

"Very clean, modern. Good job!"

"I think it's great! Too bad the rest of the building didn't get a facelift."

"ZOMG! Awesome!..."

"I love, love the look and how the computer stations are not all clumped together in one spot. Much more aesthetically pleasing. Can we redo DC?"

"Not necessary, do not see any advantages. The automated door in winter will make the info desk extremely cold. Too empty, space not cozy."

"Nice."

"I love the decorations and the new floors. It has a modern look to it and it looks great."

"Looks great! There's an abundance of computers but not enough single seating area for studying."

"It is very posh and spacious. But where are the rest of the computers? Also, you should put some sculptures or art in the big space when you first walk in."

"Nice renovation, way better than expectations. Great chairs. Please add more chairs, will soon be very crowded."

"It's nice!!"

"Nice job! Sweet couch."

"It's very stylish and appealing to my eyes. I love it compared to the old main floor. If I have one complaint it is that the floor feels a little empty, especially right in front of the entrance."

"Very well done! More modern & makes DP more welcoming."

"Love it. A lot more spacious. Very modern, clean look."

"University wasted money. Think of the students next time."

"It looks nice, the furniture is comfortable. The look is fresh. However there is a little problem. It's now like DC and everyone comes here. So, it's hard to avoid these talkative people. But it's good anyway."

"I want prayer room!"

"We need a multifaith room. It will go well with the new library look."

"It is great! Now do the other floors!"

"Sliding doors are very institutional in an unwelcoming way. "Foyer"(?) space seems a waste of space. Otherwise pretty nice."

"Great job!"

"Nice and open, but a lot of unused empty space."

"It's f'ng good. I like it. I want to see other 9 floors like main floor. Yeah!"

"It's popping! Yo! Me and my boys are feelin' it! Props to alla! Ya'll! Peace!"

"So much nicer and cleaner not as depressing as before."

"Execellent, favourable to study."

"Very nice. Much more space & much more functional! Good job!"

"Looks nice. Glad there's more lounge/meeting space. Feels bright and open. Lobby area somewhat sterile though."

"The library main floor is very spacious and some space could be used for seating, books or computers."

"The way the divisions turned out are nice!"

"Looks great--bright & spacious. Inviting!"

"I think it was unnecessary and the money would well better have been spent invested directly into the faculties of the school, esp. those who don't get much funding already (i.e. Arts)."

"I'm a HUGE fan!! (Meaning I really like it.)"

"Need more places to sit and study quietly. More computers. Chairs are comfortable although not enough tables. Glad there are more plugs to charge computers, there should be more of that across campus."

"I think it is ok but I feel there is too much space in the middle which could have been used for more study space/computers."

"Very modern but too much empty & unused space. We need more couches, desks and computers!"

"Looks great. Vast improvement. Could use some "warmth", perhaps wooden display cases and different colours on ceiling."

"Very beautiful, great job guys!!"

"Beautiful! I love the colour combination. It is modern and a much nicer place to study in."

"It looks very nice! As an arts student, I was always sad when the DC library looked as nice as it did when Porter looked so dated. Now at least the main floor is worth being proud of."

"It is great! Elegant & easy to clean. Looks bigger, brighter, better."

"Great facilities. Clean environment."

"Too much wasted space in the middle of the 2nd floor."

"Very spacious. Feels more like a library. Love all the new seating areas and new seats."

"Yay! I can finally get in here! Also nice floor."

"AMAZING! Well done. Glad I am a donor to the library. Signage should be an example to other units on campus. Thanks!"

"Very nice. A little too quiet at the moment. But very nice."

"Awesome."

"Thank you soooo much for such a gift. My only concern is that students should treat this place more as a library, not as a park, as it is so noisy. But it's way better than the Davis Centre Library. With all due respect the latter is a zoo, people laughing, joking, calling each other, noises, music. It lost the meaning of becoming a place to have some good time reading & studying."

"I like it a lot! It's very modern, simple to navigate & I really like the open-concept feel. I like how the computers are sit-down & that there are many more of them. Nice use of colours too. Great job! Definitely what DP needed.
P. S. It's too cold in here! Turn up the heat! Thanks."

"I love it. The sliding doors are superb. It looks fab. I love the new car smell. It's less dingy than before. More room. I feel though the rest of the library floors will be jealous of the 2nd."

"It's nice. But we still need more computer stations."

"I love the new furniture and modern look."

"The environment is perfect, except the smell, also more computers are set up, but still not enough for all students."

"Sleek design, nice open space, comfy chairs, very modern."

"Amazing! Thank you very much - will be great for students!"

"Beautiful. But need more desks and work stations! Thank you!!"

"It looks great, but the overall set up doesn't flow very well & it feels a little awkward. There still aren't enough public computer terminals in the DP. I searched all floors for a good 30 minutes today, trying to find a free computer so I could look up a call number. I gave up and walked over to arts lecture hall to use one there, eventually."

"Really interesting design. The glass wall between browsers and the quiet study area is brilliant, along with the quotes on walls. Increased seating is good but alot of the areas seem very bare and can fit more seating into them without becoming crowded. Stools at the benches along the windows would be handy, as well as more seating in the Browsers area. The walls seem really bare as well. The "picture frames" by browsers look like they should have pictures in them (though it looks like they're just supposed to be empty). All in all a good job, but expected something more impressive seems how it took them a month and a half longer to complete it."

"Seems kind of impersonal, not as cozy."

"Needs more colour. Potted plants. Artwork."

"So pretty... so comfortable, nice design, good match with the colour, the whole building should look like this."

"It looks much more updated and is a start to making the university campus look decent. I like the modern look. Hope the other floors and buildings that are out of date get rennovated. The campus is so ugly!"

"I think it looks great! Very modern. I have three suggestions for future improvements: 1) Art and culture exhibits/displays in the entrance because it looks a little bare. 2) Microwaves on the main floor so people can bring their lunches and eat while they study. It's hard to eat lunch in the SLC because it's so crowded. 3) A drink machine for students studying late after Browser's closes."

"It looks so nice now. I love how it looks and the layout of the main floor. Computer seating area is the best place for me to study!!!"

"Great. More roomy."

"It looks very nice. I hope you keep renovating all floors. It encourages students to study in a better environment."

"Very perfect."

"Its really nice but the internet in all of the library stinks. Please work on that!"

"Finally the library looks like a university library. Excellent renovation and interior design."

"I think that everything looks fantastic! More group study areas would be good though."

"Very nice and spacious...I hope upstairs will have lots of study space (desks and individual cubicles)."

"It looks a bit like some futuristic space shuttle and I can't say I'm thrilled with the colour scheme, but it is nice having so much more space. My only real frustration with the new design is that, as far as I can tell, there is only one printer! If there is another one, it might be profitable to put a sign up so people know where it is."

"Very spacious and appealing to the eye."

"I like the updated floors , windows and light fixtures. It is a nice environment. At some of the big lounge chairs there are very small writing tables, which aren't very useful for working. The big booth is nice but there is only one. A few smaller ones may have made more sense. There is a lot of wasted space in the front entrance way. There are wall counters with plugs but no chairs. I doubt anyone would want to use their computer and stand for the entire time. Maybe some tall chairs could be put here instead. And I'm not sure what the area is for behind the information desk in the lobby with all the tall tables. No one ever seems to use them again probably because there are no chairs. Redo the rest of the building! :)"

"Great, but why is the internet soooo slow?"

"I have been at waterloo for six years now and I think the main floor looks just amazing. It was a much needed renovation and it is great to see that the study spaces are accomodating students' needs such as comfortable chairs and laptop plugs etc. Looks Great!!!"

"It's great, but why is the wireless signal at all of the study desks near the windows so weak? "

"The main floor could use a few more arm chairs in the study areas to accommodate more students."

"It looks very nice but it should have ceramic around the whole floor."

"I really like the overall look of the floor. It is bright and spacious. I really don't like the feature wall though. It is not what I had envisioned. To me it looks like a piece of bristol board with words printed on it, taped to the inside of the glass window. I had thought the words would be part of the wall not just in a little glass window."

"I'm disappointed in the feature wall. Mandela's quote is wonderful, but it is no way "striking" in its space."

"Niceeeeeeeeee."

"It's pretty f'n sweet."

"Amazing. You guys did a fantastic job transforming the library from "so last century" into a modern learner place!"

"Who spends "x" amount of dollars on a main floor reno for advertising purposes and forgets to re-face the one element that almost every library visitor rides twice? (I'm talking about the elevators...)...perhaps you can address this issue for me?"

"Bonus ~ the windows left unobstructed makes an amazing difference ~ & hopefully the slate (!) floor will work well w. slush & wet than rugs. concerns ~ the lack or colour/warm. The monochromatic look can be a 'safe' choice but it does tend to get used looking quickly without an addition of colour to keep it energized signage ~ good; more study spots good; freeing up the front foyer to house perhaps plants? or an ottoman! thank you other comments delivered at the circulation desk by on campus staff who regularly use the library ~ great windows again after all those years but definitely an 'airport' feel ~ perhaps again the grey/ on grey/ on neutral thank you."

"Express computers on the main floor are needed as people use the computers with chairs for longer periods of time. Many people simply wish to check their email or UW-ACE in between classes. "

"It was worth the wait, I really like it."

"It looks too much like a business lobby. It's lost its warm, library feeling, there are too many bleak and dull colours - bring back the browns!"

"More study area should have been put in place. Book shelf should be removed to upper floors."

"I think that its visually appealing, it looks really nice and it doesn't look outdated anymore. However, I think that it lacks alot of the "function" that used to be what would draw me here to Dana Porter. There are no longer places where you have room to work (just fewer workstations and a bunch of those little couches plus table combinations that kill your back to work at for longer than 20 minutes) and some of it looks really barren. I look forward to a few more improvements. "

"Its great, its like we've gone into the future. I would like to see this for all the floors in DP, it really makes it a better studying environment. "

"I like it. I think it is spacious and it provides a social - study environment. I also think the access to computer workstations has improved. However, I would like to see the "new books" shelf up and running soon - and faster internet connections for both wireless computers and the PC stations."

"It is fully renovated and I like it a lot. People can feel very confortable here. The University should have more areas like this one. I would also recommend to increase a little bit the heat in the first floor. Thank you."

"It is great. Thanks for your good work."

"Looks sharp. I love the computer chairs!"

"Very nice. "

"I think it looks great!"

"Not enough computers! Already they are all used up all the time."

"It looks very nice, but I wonder if it is actually necessary. I believe a lot of money must have been spent on renovating it, but I didn't find the old layout a problem at all. The new layout seems too fancy. A library is simply a quiet place to study. All the fancy decorations can be saved. I would rather have my tuition decreased. Just out of curiosity, does the new layout make the library greener? Because if it doesn't, I find it a huge waste of money and resources and imposed a large amount of inconvenience for students. I always wonder why the library lights are turned on all night long, and this new renovation is perhaps another waste of our valuable resources. "

"Cool."

"Love the fact that there are tons more computers on the main floor. Great new updated look with nice furniture-very roomy! The only thing is that the front looks very bare....perhaps adding some art work or a display of some sort would make it less "cold" looking. "

"Needs a clock."

"Phenomenal! Love it!! So modern and so cozy at the same time! Great job!"

"I loved the space. I'm glad the carpets are gone; it looks more modern. I am concerned about the glass wall to the side of the cafe. I didn't know there was a door there and someone could easily walk into it without thinking. Is there any way to identify it? Good work and lovely space!"

"Its good but there's alot of wasted space in the middle of the floor. Perhaps put more computers? Or even make a whole floor (3?) basically a computer floor. DP main floor is hot though!"

"Looks like a hospital."

"The place is a massive improvement. However, there's a lot of wasted space near the circulation desk area (near the new computers to the left of entrance. This space can be used to put more computers as I think there is still an insufficient amount of computers!!! Furthermore, I've noticed there are 3 printers but just 1 swipe card machine. What's the point of having 3 printers with just 1 swipe card machine? Should increase to 2 swipe card machine."

"Very nice decoration! Everything is quite new. More private study spaces have been added. I like new DP library."

"The renovation of the main floor is a great space because it is vibrant and inviting. I think that a library should reflect the students that will be using it. A study space that is modern and attractive inspires and represents the students, and I believe that this renovation accomplished that."

"It took them six months to do this!!! Have you thought of applying financial penalties against the contractor? Smarten up!!"

"Grrrreat! So much better than DC. Yet I wish Food Services would have a larger variety of healthy/snack foods and drinks available."

"Need more computers and NEW computers, whose keyboard is not difficult to type on since keys have become hard."

"It's great! I think it was about time that the main floor was renovated to really get with the times. The library looks much better than before with this new floor concept and the new furniture. Great job!"

"It's making better use of spaces at Main floor, certainly MUCH better than before. But now I am wondering what took the renovation so long. Was it worth the wait?"

"It's new and bright. Very much appreciated."

"Gorgeous - really brings up the aesthetic appeal of our library for visitors and prospective students. Good choice of colours. More computer stations could have been beneficial, however I find they fill up quickly."

"Amazing, other building's should be renovated like this, to make them modern and sleek as well. A larger cafe/cafeteria area would have been nicer but still it is very good. Also, no bathrooms on the main floor is a drawback. Overall, the renovations have made the library a nicer place to study. "

"I love it :)"

"Too few seats on the first floor: most of the spaces are empty: should get more seats."

"It is lovely. However, I would have rather seen the money spent on print resources."

"Very nice, open, bright, social space. Now can we please build another floor to accommodate not just more books but the ones we already have?"

"Its pretty awesome, I love it."

"Nothing out of this world. It is nice, it really give a sense of new, but I was expecting something bigger with a better design from UW."

"I really love the colour tone of the first floor. Great Job!"

"Glass partition between coffee shop and study area is excellent.. good noise buffer - tons of plugs... which was the main problem with study desks - nice new seating in lounge area = good new design."

"Need more seats and more computers."

"The layout seems better. But the look is cold. Too grey. I miss colours."

"Very good design and comfortable feel. Now, if only every floor in DP was the main floor."

"It's awesome!"

"More study area should have been put in place. Book shelf should be removed to upper floors. "

"Soso."

"What a waste of money! Why did that take five months?"

"Its o.k. but was it worth the long wait?"

"Overall good job but should have been taken care of in the summer. Was a MAJOR inconvenience along with all the other construction going on in the University. It took way too long and a project like this should have been well planned so as to hold students' best interests at hand. Also especially with a noticeable increase in the student population this term, an upgrade like this at such a crucial time (fall term, new frosh), the timing of this doesn't make much sense. Hopefully in the future activities like this are taken care of in the summer term."

"Looks amazing. Design makes the library much nicer to talk in and spend time studying in. Well worth it."

"Great café, nice to see locally baked goods. Overall the foor looks good, though it would have been nicer if it were a more open layout. Understandably, this would have been difficult because the building itself is only so wide/long. Now all the library needs to do is bring the other floors up to date. Overall, well done!"

"I like it, very open, very contemporary. I like the new arrangements / layouts and more outlets!"

"I LOVE IT!!!"

"Awesome! Renovate the rest of the library like this! More round corner couches."

"The floor when coming in is very slippery when wet. The increased number of computers is great. Some more study tables would be wonderful."

"Bomb diggidy... but way too hot. Conserve energy and turn down the heat. So unnecessary. Pretty embarrassing for such a respectable school to be so IRRESPONSIBLE."

"It looks amazing, though it needs a wow! factor in the middle of the floor as it looks too spacious... a fountain or a large statue would really enhance that space."

"More computers and places to sit. Too much empty space."

"It looks great! I especially love the automatic doors and the new computer stations. I do have two suggestions though. First, the cafe (Browsers) could use more seating. Secondly, the foyer right before you reach the information desk is too empty. Perhaps a waterfall or artwork such as some statues would make it feel less barren. Otherwise, I think it's great!"

"High tech!"

"BALLIN' ... aka awesome!"

"Great! I love the open space around the entrance. Could have more computers on the main floor. Otherwise, great study environment."

"Excellent!"

"It's nice but not as comfy! I loved the old look, but it defintely looks updated now! Good work!"

"A very comfortable environment, contemporary and modern look, everything is conveniently located, very organized as well."

"The quote from Mandela looks terrible. Other colours are needed."

"Very nice. Food counter lacks variety."

"It's good."

"AMAZINGLY JOKES."

"Great! Main floor entrance could use some decorations though."

"I love it! New & fresh. I'm with the Office for Persons with Disabilities and I finally feel we have a place to study (we haven't been forgotten). Thanks for giving us this space & Janet a nice office - she deserves it." — 4A ES student

"Looks modern and sleek."

"I'm glad Browsers is back so I can get a cup of coffee on this side of campus in the evenings. It's got the new library smell. The floor is pretty. It's good there are more computers."

"It's nice but it should have been complete by fall term. Also, will it be slippery on the floor in winter?"

"You can spend all this money on a renovation and you can't even fix the hole punch that has been broken for a long time? You should really spend money on necessities, not glamourizing the library."

"It's pretty!"

"Looks gang!"

"Waste of money."

"Has an airport look to it (I like airports). Desks are nice. Very clean. Thanks for taking out the carpet. Lighting is well throughout."

"I love it! I like the new design and the tables that can be used by students! It looks modern."

"It's been worth the wait."

"Beautiful! Cafe filled tea that was not purchased there! GOOD!"

"Very "renovated" look (nice)"

"Sexy. Very cool and clean. Well laid out."

"It's beautiful and so future-esque! More round tables like the one by the printer would be awesome!"

"It's SICK! Off the hook..."

"It's awesome, although I miss the carpet."

"Amazing. Money well spent."

"Sexay! LOVE IT!"

"Beautiful! It looks and smells awesome."

"Chairs at Browsers don't slide on the tile floor!"

"Renovate the rest."

"When I stepped in through the automatic doors I felt a sense of modern technology. It love it and it looks beautiful."

"It is extremely SEXY! However, there should be a couch in the cafe, on the wall with the huge frames. OR, have artworks in the frames. It is a little empty."

"I like it, it's very nice. Extra computers are handy."

"Maybe you should have asked about the plan before you spent millions of dollars of our tuition money on it!"

"Oh my god - LOVE IT!"

"Much cleaner and cozier - lots of room etc. which is nice. HOWEVER with tuition fees I can barely afford my rent and groceries and I know that this money could have been better used."

"Spacey."

"I think it looks great! More open and great colours! What about the big space in the middle?"

"Way better! So glad it is finally open. Many plugs in spots in cafe an asset. Way to go! So suits UW."

"I hope there's a microwave around so that we can heat up our meals. This is helpful for students who want to stay up late at DP."

"No washrooms on the main floor!"

"The layout and design are amazing."

"Very interesting and well planned. Lots of space. 100% better than what it was. The colours are dark, maybe that's the smallest point. Maybe needs some little ornaments to make it look nicer. But in general it's nice and functional."

"Awesome job."

"Very nice use of all the windows. The only thing the library needs now is PLANTS (non-artificial). Green and brown go nicely together."

"I love it. Great job. I just hope everyone takes good care of it too & keeps it clean. I hate to see empty coffee cups and trash all over. Maybe more trash cans or a "trash-police" patrolling every once and a while could help. Thank you."

"Cool! It'll stop stinking in a few days or weeks, I hope."

"Looks soooo much better than before! Great job. Some parts look very empty though and too spacious."

"It rocks. Much better. Worth the wait!"

"Titties! (Good)"

"Good. I like the views."

"It looks awesome! When is the rest of the library going to be done?"

"It is super good and nice! I am wondering who designed this? It becomes more spacious, more room can be used, flexible and effective! Great..."

"It's okay. It's no longer cozy & comfortable."

"It looks like an airport lounge or food court at a mall."

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