New North 408

Lannan Center (New North 408) construction began in the early summer of 2010: the wall between New North 406 and 408 was demolished, new flooring was installed, and the walls and ceiling were re-wired. A sound system, 65” flat screen, cable and ethernet were installed, as well as a secure cabinet to house a Blu-Ray player and sound equipment. A bookcase was preserved at the far end of the Center to house the Lannan Library.

Funding from the Lannan Foundation furnished the space with seminar area, including modular tables, stackable chairs, and a lectern/computer stand; and a reception alcove, which includes an area rug, sofa chair, couch, coffee and side tables, and lamp. A laptop was purchased for the Center’s use in conjunction with the flat screen.

The Center was officially opened at the first reading of the “Reading and Talks” series, given by the new Lannan Visiting Chair, Fanny Howe, on September 29, 2010. Since its opening, the Center has hosted Lannan Seminars, smaller readings, film screenings, meetings of graduate students with their thesis directors, regularly scheduled classes on subjects related to our activities, and meetings of the committees of the Department of English.

The Center seats 20 for seminars, 30 for small readings, and hosts upwards of 45 at receptions. This space has long been the dream of Lannan Center and would not have been possible without the support of the offices of the President, the Provost, the Dean of the College and the Department of English.