Whether you’re looking to curl up with a good book, explore the latest virtual-reality trends, try your hand at sewing or catch up on homework, Hege Commons Ground might have just what you need.
The Commons Ground has undergone major renovations over the past two years, bringing a fresh look and purpose to the space. Formerly stuck in the 1980s, the addition of modern technology, new furnishings and dedicated crafting and study areas has breathed new life into the library.
William Kelly, digital pedagogy and digital scholarship librarian at Hege, said the project was planned in 2020 as part of a five-year renovation effort funded by a Title III grant. The upgrades to the Leak Room, Collaboratory and Commons Ground were to be financed through “a combination of grant money, college funds and donor funding,” Kelly said.
However, due to what he described as “the college’s financial situation” and struggles with donor funding, Guilford had to “withdraw its promises” for a total renovation.
Yet despite financial challenges, Guilford used available funds to carefully design a space centered on student needs.
Kelly said the Commons Ground “took the most planning” of all the renovated areas because the college had to determine “exactly what we wanted it to be” and what students wanted from the space.
Igor Tennant, a recent graduate who interned at Hege during the renovations, played a major role in ensuring student voices were heard throughout the process.
“I created Google Forms that I sent to all students on campus asking what they would like to see come out of the renovations,” Tennant said. He added that he was able to watch those ideas take shape — down to details such as “what type of furniture they would like.”
Kelly emphasized that focus, saying his main goal is for “all students to feel welcome” and to use the space as a “place to express creativity.”
With student creativity in mind, the renovations introduced new areas for exploration and hands-on learning. The space now features a virtual-reality room equipped with Meta VR headsets. Students can use them for entertainment or to practice vocational and technical skills, helping them “prepare for real-world situations like job interviews outside of the classroom,” Kelly said.
Commons Ground also includes makerspaces with 3D printers and a sewing machine for both class projects and personal use.
Alongside these creative zones, refreshed study spaces now offer students more flexibility and comfort.
“I have really enjoyed studying with my friends at the Commons Ground,” said Shanmukh Malyaya, an Early College student. “Whether sitting on the large couches or in the private study rooms, I find it much easier to collaborate with my peers and focus on homework.”
Malyaya said he looks forward to trying out the VR headsets and gaming consoles expected to arrive soon.
Amzi Chioke Patrick, a student employee at the library, said students have been using the space regularly, though it’s still “a bit underutilized” since reopening at the start of the semester. She said she enjoys using the area to study and complete homework.
Whether students are tackling assignments or exploring new creative outlets, Hege Commons Ground offers the tools to do both.
Guilford’s investment in the project — despite financial challenges — highlights its commitment to supporting the diverse academic and extracurricular needs of its students and creating a campus environment where innovation and collaboration can thrive.
