By Jason Cohen

The library, strictly known for its sanctuary and books, is now becoming a place where students can relax, have a drink, food and then do work.

The University’s Axinn Library will go through renovations this summer with new additions such as a café, more study space and lounge furniture.

The library, which was built in the 1960’s, will receive a complete makeover of its main floor. The construction company will be refacing, resurfacing, putting in new lighting and creating new study spaces, Sarah McCleskey, director of access services at the library, said.

The west end of the library, which consists primarily of stacks of books, will be cleared and lounge chairs and couches will be put there so students can have room to relax and study. Modern computer desks with access to outlets will also be added, allowing students to bring in lap top computers and not worry about losing battery power.

“The one thing that I’m really excited about is that we are going to have a cafe in the library,” McCleskey said.

The café is going to be put in the space in front of the elevators and offer beverages and light snacks.

Throughout the main floor there will be comfortable lounge furniture instead of the traditional chairs and desks that are there currently. McCleskey said the goal of the renovation is for students to feel comfortable and be able to relax when they are studying and doing their work.

“We want it to be more like Barnes & Noble,” McCleskey said. “We want people to feel comfortable and I think having a café will really help the atmosphere of the library.”

McCleskey said that she, along with the school and other librarians, want the library to have a friendly and cozy atmosphere.

“We want the library to be inviting and comfortable, and overall the living room of the campus,” McCleskey said.

Another possible addition to the library is a laptop circulation program that would allow students to check out laptops from the library with a HofstraID and use them in the library. The program has been proposed, but has yet to be finalized.