New base library now open, more to offer

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Jamie L. Coggan
  • 355th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
DAVIS-MONTHAN AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  The base library re-opened Aug. 22, and is now located in the Kennedy Professional Development Center building 2441.

The library was included in the PDC blueprint to ensure all like-functions are located together in one building.

"The new location is convenient for all D-M population including retirees, spouses, children and students attending off-duty education courses at the PDC," said Phil King, team chief of Base Training and Education Services.

Wing leadership wanted to provide Airmen with a central location for college classes in addition to the library. In this manner, Airmen are able to utilize library resources before or after classes without having to leaving the building. Thus, making it more convenient for students to do their research and homework, with classes and the library conveniently co-located.

The library now has more space and will offer the same programs, but plans to add more in the future. The library offers several specialized areas such as Kid's Cove's, the periodical room, main collection, and conference room.

"The facility is very family friendly," said Marie Hanna, force development flight chief. "We have a huge children's room that can accommodate more children during our reading programs and it is kid friendly with children size tables and chairs and very conducive to learning."

The library also offers a built in teen room, "Teen's Space," which provides age appropriate videos and books and computers, as well as a separate computer room where youth can do research, check e-mails and do homework. In addition, the library has included Web cam capability for families to talk with their deployed loved ones.

"I think this is a great tool for our families to be in touch with each other no matter where they're deployed," said Ms. Hanna. "The base library is here for all our D-M folks to use and I encourage everyone to come visit our new facility and take advantage of the different programs."

The old library is being renovated and the Mental Health Flight will relocate after all renovations are complete.

The new library, which has a main entrance on the North side of the building, will be open Monday through Thursday from 10:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and will be closed on Sundays.