16 Things We Can’t Wait for Dukes To Discover in Carrier Library
Posted August 19, 2026 in Carrier Renovation News, Educational Technology News, Featured News, JMU Libraries News, The Makery News
We’re so happy to welcome you (back) to Carrier Library, which just reopened after three years of renovation!
Stop by, explore the floorplans, watch President Jim’s welcome video, or keep reading to learn about a few of the things waiting for you in Carrier:
Ground Floor
1. A 24-hour study space (pictured above) — Designed in response to student requests for more 24-hour study options, this lobby balances late-night academic needs with daytime functionality. After hours, retractable gates and JMU ID card readers ensure a secure, round-the-clock study environment.
2. A Starbucks café — Meet up with friends or grab a bite in this vibrant new hangout conveniently located in the Jones Wing.
First Floor
3. Ask the Library Desk — Carrier’s hub for checking out materials, navigating the building, and connecting with library experts.
4. An anatomy room (pictured above) — Hands-on access to three-dimensional anatomical models to support learning in human anatomy and health sciences. Another anatomy room is in Rose Library.
5. Fun reads — Look for our popular books and graphic novels in the double-height space (pictured above) overlooking the Student Success Center
6. A place to heat up lunch or prep a snack — Find a sink and microwave in the vending area, pictured above, on the first floor.
7. Restored 1939 lobby — The restored historic lobby, pictured above, features an original 1939 staircase preserved across every renovation and the Joan of Arc statue — a campus treasure since 1917 that stood in this lobby when the building first opened in 1939. Reading rooms nearby include preserved architectural details and original features and furniture.
Second Floor
8. The Makery in Carrier (pictured above) — One of our two makerspaces with high-end equipment and a knowledgeable team ready to help you create, craft, and discover. Find the other one in Rose Library.
9. Audio/Video Studios (pictured above) — The Makery also offers spaces with professional studio lighting, a green screen, and high-end audio and video equipment for media projects.
10. Learning Innovations & Design Desk — Where you can check out laptops and other equipment, get help with Canvas, and more.
11. Inspiring galleries — Explore two distinct exhibit spaces on the second floor: one showcasing student artwork and one featuring our Distinctive Collections (pictured above), which are rare, unique, and historical items from the Libraries’ collections.
Third Floor
12. A grand reading room with a view — Enjoy sweeping views of campus and the Shenandoah Valley while you study or read in a quiet, 236-seat reading room, pictured above.
13. A space for contemplation — Take a breather in our dedicated relaxation room, designed to support a variety of needs, such as mindfulness, prayer space, or a place to experience reduced sensory input.
Across the Building
14. Group study rooms — Working on a group project? Carrier offers 34 study rooms across multiple floors—some are reservable, and some are first-come, first-served.
15. Study spaces for every vibe — Whether you’re into book-lined spots, lively and open spaces, or quiet study rooms, you’ll find great study spaces in both the historic and newest parts of Carrier. Check out one of the spaces on the ground floor, pictured above.
16. Universal restrooms on every floor — Access safe, private, and accessible facilities conveniently located on every level of the building.
Beyond the Building
There is so much more to discover in Carrier—these are just a few highlights to get you started!
While we’re super excited to welcome you back to Carrier Library, remember: a library is more than a building. JMU Libraries is a community of friendly experts working across four locations to support your learning, creativity, and research. Whether you’re exploring ideas, diving into data, or looking for your favorite place to study, we’re here to help you thrive!