By Megan Brake – The Pryor Learning Commons, or PLC, has taken a little over a year to complete, but is well worth the wait.  The incredible three story building is just part of phase one of the Campaign for Jewell.  The Pryor Learning Commons building officially opened with a celebration on August 20^th, 2013 in the brand new Trotter Arts Plaza located in front of Pillsbury and Brown Hall.  The event featured live music from local bands and performances from various campus organizations. 

The PLC is located where Greene Hall and the Water Tower used to be.  The building is a combination library and paperless learning facility, hosting numerous learning resources.  The lowest level is home to classrooms as well as audio/video recording, editing and production studio facilities. The middle floor is a quiet area designated for study and collaboration in the common areas and small-group study rooms.  The top floor also has several large and small areas where students can study, get together for group projects, or can relax in between classes.  The top floor features a new café, @the beak, that sells Starbucks drinks and a live, student Twitter feed displayed on a large-screen monitor. 

The PLC is also home to the Academic Achievement Center, various library services, the Office of Journey Grants and International Studies, and a 3D printer that is open to all students and faculty.  All of the special features in the PLC add yet another dimension to the engaging and unique Jewell experience.