Bakersfield College unveiled its newly renovated bookstore at the beginning of the fall semester.
The bookstore, which cost about $800,000 to renovate, has been improved in many ways.
Much of the merchandise has changed. The bookstore now has purses, wallets, umbrellas and other items to appeal to college students.
Located in the back of the bookstore is an ATM, which was moved inside to increase security for the students. Right out front of the bookstore are about 72 small, red lockers that cost a quarter for students to use.
“One of the purposes is to keep students from losing their possessions, and backpacks,” said Robert Day, director of bookstore and auxiliary services.
This is the first major renovation for the bookstore since it was built in 1965. Since then, the bookstore has had only one inside paint job.
“It’s pretty, the design is nice,” said Tiffeny Thompson, 19, an architecture major. “I like the octagon shape of the bookstore, but there’s not any contrast in color.”
Also the main sales floor in the bookstore is larger, with five cash registers designed with the “island concept,” which is similar to the check out lines in stores like Target and Wal-Mart.
Steven High, 20, a psychology major said, “I like the new checkout area, it’s very round, it looks a lot better. I like the new bookstore. It’s very attractive and it is very aesthetically pleasing.”
“Money for the renovation came from enterprise funds, funds that are set up for ASBC, bookstore and cafeteria,” said Linda Quinones-Vaughan, executive director of institutional development and foundation.
“At this point, there are so many advantages. I really can’t pick out disadvantages. It’s so new and everything is working. I’m thrilled,” Day said.
The district architect for the project was Chris Addington. The main contractor for the renovation was J.J. Amoroso.