2. Home»
  3. Giving»
  4. Current Initiatives»
  5. Library Upgrades»
  6. Cutler Commons

Giving

Stockwell Library's Cutler Commons Project

Oct. 7: Sally Stark Cutler, '75, (center) leads the ribbon cutting.

View a video walk-through of Cutler Commons

The first floor of Stockwell Library and the bridge connecting Stockwell to the Mudd Learning Center have been transformed into Cutler Commons, an active learning space wired for the latest technology and featuring a full-service coffee bar. The renovations have been made possible by a leadership gift from Sally Stark Cutler, '75, and her husband, Sandy Cutler.

"This generous gift from Sally and Sandy Cutler and the support from our trustees allow us to move forward quickly on library improvements that have been in the planning stages for many months," says President Donna Randall. "We are literally redefining what our library should be and how it can better serve the entire campus community, and it's most gratifying to be taking this next step."

Among the project highlights:

  • Fluid work spaces have been created with modular furnishings, portable white boards, an interactive SMART board, and readily accessible data and power sources, designed "to accommodate different configurations and different learning styles," according to Provost Susan Conner.

  • The circulation and reference desks have moved from their current location in Mudd to the west end of Stockwell, creating a one-stop service area that will offer library instruction and resource help as well as laptop checkout and technical assistance.

  • Stockwell's front door is once again the main entrance to the library complex and leads directly into the Cutler Commons, underscoring the central role of this space.

  • A new, College-run café with full-service coffee bar features specialty beverages and fresh delicatessen-style offerings.

For further information on the Cutler Commons project, please see the College's original March 2011 news story as well as College coverage of the dedication ceremony on Oct. 7, 2011.

Fundraising is continuing in support of further improvements in Albion College's library facilities. For details on these future plans, please contact the Office of Institutional Advancement via e-mail at or by phone at 517/629-0446.

Make a Gift