Caitlin Yamada/ Iowa State Daily

Students studying at Parks Library.

Opening its doors in 1925, Iowa State University’s Parks Library has pushed to foster a positive environment for students to learn, utilize resources and engage with others. 

The Parks project cost an estimated $400,000 and allowed the university to expand its library collection. The building covers 325,488 square feet throughout its five floors.

“Parks has a great environment; you can do so many things all at one place,” Brandon D’Costa, a Parks Library employee and sophomore in psychology, said. “Everyone is welcome, and it brings a really good sense of community to campus.”

Parks Library provides various technologies for students to use such as computers and printers, as well as other equipment. In addition to its technological resources, Parks is home to a nearly endless collection of books, magazines and textbooks as well as DVDs for rental.

Various services are also available to students such as tech support and tutoring help.

“Students shouldn’t be afraid to ask for help here. There’s so many useful services that we’d love to help get acquainted with,” D’Costa said.

The first floor of the library is also home to Bookends Cafe, managed by ISU Dining. Bookends offers coffee, espresso drinks, smoothies and specialty beverages. Food options are also available such as bagels, pastries, desserts, sandwiches, salads and fruit.

“Bookends is a great place to study, have a coffee and just hang out with friends,” Tiare Schmid, a Bookends employee and sophomore in criminal justice, said.

Parks Library allows food and drinks in most areas of the building, aside from floor fout.

Another way Parks Library helps to create a safe and welcoming environment for students is its mindfulness room. This space located in room 297 offers students a place to decompress from their schoolwork with meditation or other relaxing activities. Electronic devices and cell phone use are prohibited in this space.

Located in room 034, the International Nest is a space for international students and other members of the Iowa State community to socialize, relax and study with friends. The International Nest provides students with whiteboards, games and monitors equipped with HDMI plugins. The space also hosts various events throughout the year for students to socialize and make new connections.

Whether you’re just dropping in to use the printers, looking for a spot to study or seeking to meet new friends, Parks Library hopes to provide a positive and welcoming environment for students to achieve success in their academic careers.

“I come to Parks pretty much every day in between classes, before exams and just when I need to get some homework done,” Jamey Nguyen, a sophomore in computer science said. “It’s fun to find new spots and pick one depending on what you’re looking for.”