Tunnels, Pools, and Ghosts: Exploring Space at St. Catherine University

Derham Hall Library


The original library of the university was located in Derham Hall, a small library with a modest collection of books. The library was a place for students to study just as it is today. The library would later be moved to the basement of the chapel providing a larger space that could accommodate the needs of the growing student population. The library would be moved once more to its current location in 1960 to a building dedicated to the library. This building was later combined with St. Joseph's Hall in the construction of the Coeur de Catherine, at this time the library would be remodeled to create more functional spaces for students and faculty.

The library has changed in more than just spaces it has also changed in ownership. The original library was created by the sisters as a place to learn and read for their students. When it moved from the chapel basement to the new building it is clear that the library is owned by the students and sisters. Photographs show students moving stacks of books from one building to the other, their investment in the move shows that they have taken responsibility for the library. It is no longer the building of just the sisters but the space of students. This change in ownership also reflects the student experience. As the college grew older and bigger students gained more freedom and individuality. The library today has fun display cases and events catered to students reflecting exactly who the space is by and for. 

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