Black, White, and Tiger Blue All Over: The UHS Library is Undergoing Renovation

Molly Wright and Joaquin Perez-Bahloul

The University High School library is getting a much-needed redesign, thanks to a project led by the National Honor Society. The goal? To turn the space into more than just a place to check out books.

“The National Honor Society is heading up the library project because we want to leave a lasting impact on this school,” says Arya Debes, a member of NHS. “We believe that an improved library will provide a quiet study space and an overall better school environment.”

Right now, the library is just a room on the fourth floor where students check out books and leave. But that’s exactly what the project hopes to change. The new vision is to create a space that encourages both reading and connection—somewhere students can actually stay and enjoy.

Alleia Bakker, head of the project, explained it like this: “We need a space where students can feel comfortable, and the best way to make that happen is if the community participates in the setup. I hope the library becomes a space where students can explore and relax. I hope it encourages students to read but also to engage with each other.”

Their inspiration comes from the middle school’s break areas—spaces that are casual, welcoming, and give students a chance to recharge. But this version has a stronger literary focus.

“Having an active UHS library can remind people that the library is there for them,” Arya adds. “It can encourage them to take a moment and look into something they need to—or just want to.”