University Athletic Association donates 2004 pay-per-view proceeds to libraries

August 19, 2005

The University of Florida Athletic Association recently donated $75,000 to the George A. Smathers Libraries from proceeds of last season’s pay-per-view televised football games. Half of the amount has been added to a growing UAA Endowment, which now totals more than $500,000. The remainder will be used to provide students enhanced electronic learning tools in the new Library West, which is slated to reopen next spring.

Dale Caelas, director of University Libraries, said, “The libraries’ partnership with the Athletic Association has lasted for almost two decades. Their invaluable assistance over the years has repeatedly enabled the libraries to provide special support to students and faculty that was beyond the capacity of state funding. From providing the first electronic training room that allowed librarians to help students learn to navigate electronic information, to providing the first pool of public computers for student access in the libraries, to providing the funds for a unique and rare history of science book to serve as the library’s four millionth volume, Athletic Association funds have made a real difference.”

Jeremy Foley, director of athletics, said, “The strong relationship we have with the academic community on campus is something we take a great deal of pride in. We are very pleased to be able to continue to contribute dollars to the University Library System and the students’ educational experience here at Florida.”

With the reopening of Library West, the humanities and social sciences library, plans include an Information Commons that will substantially improve the tools provided to students to manipulate electronic information for their schoolwork. The third-floor presentation area will be a highly visible and useful space providing a 66-inch projection Smart Board with DVD and VHS capacities in a comfortable student environment. The enhanced capacity will assist students in preparing computer-based presentations for classes.