Letter to the Editor: Proposal for changes in TSC cause concerns

Editor,

I’m concerned about some of proposed changes to the Taggart Student Center, and I’d like to add my two cents. I’ve visited with a number of students about theidea to expand the computer lab, and very few have been in favor of the decision.

There seems to be countless other computer labs that aren’t used at capacity, and it would seem silly to use valuable real-estate in the Taggart for more computers when most of the time, they would sit unused. There are only a few hours each day that there’s even a waiting list for lab there, and during those hours, I don’t think it would hurt students to walk to another lab. The CIL Lab in the ESLC is usually empty, and it’s less than a two minute walk from the Taggart. Is it possible to promote a little exercise rather than immediate convenience?

If we do decide to extend the lab, then the Statesman office would need to be moved, as has been discussed. It has been proposed to put it in the Towers, and I think this would be a gross mistake if we are seeking to make the TSC more student-friendly. The Statesman is the voice of the students, so rather than sending it to some obscure office, I think it would be in the best interest of the student body to keep the Statesman accessible. I think it’s important to keep our news center centrally located.

I’ve also heard it proposed that the remaining space now occupied by the Statesman would be converted back into some sort of lounge or game area, like the Old Bull Pen. Now I started school here once the Bull Pen was gone, but I’m guessing they did away with it because it wasn’t being used, much like the TV lounge on the second floor. If we bring it back, will it go unused like it was before, or is something going to be different? I hope this at least provides some food for thought, especially for those making these difficult decisions.

Benjamin F Cummings