Dozens of students and faculty filled the fourth floor of the Moody Learning Center Wednesday for SAC’s “Pages Through Time” centennial celebration, marking 100 years of operation for the college’s library.
A cake modeled after the Moody Learning Center, made by Exclusive Cake Shop, drew a lot of attention as students and faculty entered the library. Students received SAC library–branded Lotería cards featuring items such as the self-checkout station, charging cords and DVDs to play after speakers and alumni shared the library’s significance.
“A lot of folks don’t know we’re actually guardians,” Director of Library Services Lee LeBlanc said at the event. “Each of my team members has a story about how they helped a student stay in school, whether it’s clearing a registration hold or finding some place on campus. All those students that we helped were on the verge of dropping out of school. We’re not only a gateway or library; we’re very much a guardian and safe space for students to develop themselves.”
The first library on campus was built in 1950 in McCreless Hall, then moved to the Moody Learning Center in 1968, where it has evolved into a technology-driven resource. Students can now access interactive tools such as 3D models of human anatomy, virtual reality headsets to visit archaeological sites and robust databases to tackle any project.
“I’m glad to have graduated from San Antonio College,” SAC President Dr. Francisco Solis said at the event. “When our students graduate, you should feel confident that you are prepared for what is next for you. Whether that is enrollment in university or entering the workforce, you have the skills to meet those requirements.”
SAC alumni and community engagement consultant, Sonny Melendrez, spoke at the centennial about how the library shaped his love for learning and how the librarians went above and beyond for him.
“I would come here to read books that I didn’t have an assignment on,” Melendrez said. “I remember we always had librarians who were friendly and helped, which is part of the wonderful legacy of the 100 years of San Antonio College. You can come here and know that someone is willing to help you.”
The library offers solace for students who need a quiet place to study, a group study session and sound-reducing study pods.
“I spend a lot of time here, and it’s a building that I hold very close,” psychology major Edder Martinez said. “We’ve all been here studying during finals, trying to get assignments in. I know once I leave, the Moody Learning Center and the library will be a place I remember fondly.”
The library also hosts art exhibits, alumni speaking engagements and open mic nights.
“I hope they keep hosting fun events and making it a place where people enjoy learning,” science major Sophia Andrade said.
The library is located on the second, third and fourth floors of the Moody Learning Center. For more information, visit the library’s web page.
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