The Harold and Wilma Good Library, which was closed for renovations for most of the summer, reopened on Aug. 25, just in time for the first day of classes.
What visitors to the library may notice first is the removal of a large section of the front desk area; what they may not immediately see are improvements higher up.“We redid the ceiling, which was actually the messiest and most noticeable part of the entire renovation,” said Fritz Hartman, director of the library.
The goal was to make the entrance area more open and inviting. New features, such as updates to the ASK Desk and the “news nook” area for readers who want to browse magazines, were added to improve students’ academic experience and ensure they can access information and support more easily.
“We wanted to create a welcoming environment and a better sense of belonging,” Hartman said. “It just feels better now.”
The remodeling also made the elevator more accessible. In the past, the elevator was located behind a counter, seemingly reserved for staff. The new layout enables all students, staff and visitors, including those with mobility challenges, to access the library space equally.
“I think people didn’t know the elevator was there since you had to go behind the desk to access it,” said Aina Lopez, a senior library assistant. “Now that it’s been renovated, students and staff are using it a lot more.”
The renovations were made possible by a $3 million Title V federal grant for Hispanic-serving institutions from the U.S. Department of Education. The funds, received in October 2023, are being invested in student services and campus spaces to boost more students’ success — including the library.
Last fall, the first-floor south suite of the library was remodeled to accommodate the Academic Success Center. This center now has expanded tutoring, writing help and other academic support services for students.
“Our goal is not only to improve how the library looks but also how it helps students succeed,” Hartman said. “We want students to feel comfortable here, and we want them to know they can find the help they need. “
The library has returned to standard hours: Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m., Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday from 1 to 4 p.m., and Sunday from 1 to 11 p.m.
Students are already making good use of the renovated space and other resources.
“Students are coming in right away and it’s exciting to see,” said Jan Kauffman, the associate dean for student success and Title V project director. “They’re noticing the changes, using the new areas and really filling the space.”
Some students have shared that they enjoy the updated atmosphere of the library. One first-year student, Kaleb Barham, said, “It’s a nice place to study — it’s calm and has a good atmosphere.”
The changes made so far are just the beginning. The next goal is to renovate the second floor. “There should be improved spaces for individuals and small groups to work,” Kauffman said. “It’s more student-focused upstairs.”
The college has to keep these projects within budget. But Hartman said the team is planning carefully to make sure each step improves the library in a way that truly benefits students.
“We’re very pleased with the change,” he said. “It feels like a natural fit for the campus, and it’s a space that students really seem to enjoy.”
The Good Library has been a part of student life at Goshen College for many years. Now, with recent renovations, it is becoming an even stronger hub for learning, support, and connection.
From July 2024 to June 2025, 63,000 people physically entered the building to access resources, according to Kelsey McLane, a promotion and access librarian.
“We don’t have the statistics yet to compare student visits before and after the renovations, but by next year we should be able to make comparisons,” said Hartman.
Hartman made a point of noting that the free coffee is still available at the library. “It’s just in a new spot now,” he said, “but it’s still there to enjoy while you study or take a break.”
