Columbia College´s New Library Wins Award

Before all the books are even stacked onto its multiple rows of shelves, Columbia College´s new library has received the Tuolumne County Chamber of Commerce´s New Building Award for August. As such, the contemporary two-story facility will also be entered into the competition for the county´s most outstanding new building of the year, which will be announced at the chamber´s installation banquet in November.

Officially named the Learning Resources/Media Technology Center, the impressive 20,021 gross sq. ft. structure will house the college´s library, media technology services department and several faculty offices. Built at a cost of $8.1 million, it is the first new permanent structure constructed at Columbia College in 12 years and is located in the middle of the campus on the shore of the San Diego Reservoir.

Selection by the chamber for the monthly new building award is primarily based on how well the entry blends in with the local community. Requirements include a well thought out design and how it fits in with the Mother Lode environment. The chamber´s ambassador committee nominates the potential buildings and the board of directors makes the final decision.

The Learning Resources/Media Technology Center will open for use on Sept. 2, the first day of class of the college´s fall semester. Students can register online (www.gocolumbia.org), by touch-tone phone (536-5400), or in person at the admissions and records office. For more information, call 588-5231 or 5233.

The general public is invited to the Gala Grand Opening of the new facility on Wednesday, Oct. 8 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.