CANTON -- A $160,000 grant will help St. Lawrence University purchase new furniture and research equipment for its existing study spaces.

St. Lawrence received a $160,000 grant this week from the George I. Alden Trust to support the transformation of the University’s library from a traditional research and study space to a facility that supports shared learning and communication through the use of advanced information technology.

Specifically, the grant will help equip seven existing group study rooms in the Owen D. Young Library with state-of-the-art technology, which will help to optimize and enhance student group learning experiences.

“We are thrilled that the Alden Foundation is supporting our vision to ensure the library is meeting the 21st century needs of our students and faculty,” Justin Sipher, vice president for libraries and information technology said. “We take great pride in the resources we have, the services we offer, and the spaces our community uses for research, teaching and study.”

The money will be used to purchase flat-panel displays, wiring and furniture for seven group study rooms, a new instructional classroom and the conversion of three classrooms into modern learning spaces. The University will also help support the project, including creating a central reservation system and displays at each room location.

Renovations to ODY could begin as early as this summer.