News Reporter
Students returning to campus this year waited in the same unending bookstore lines that they have faced for years. But major renovations to the school’s bookstore have made it more accommodating to students and provided them with a more comfortable shopping experience.
Though the new bookstore may not have eased the stress on students’ wallets, with some students’ textbook purchases totaling over $600, it seemed much more able to cope with the annual opening rush than before.
As in previous years, students simply handed over their schedules to assistants. Unlike previous years, however, when one assistant would rush from table to table finding all of a student’s books, assistants were stationed by subject and responsible for only a few books each. These differences, according to Mr. James Yanelli, Director of Student Activities, resulted in a much more efficient system.
Since all the space in the store is now being used to display products rather than to store them, the store’s range of products has expanded to include more health and beauty products, convenient snack items, fixtures, and a wider selection of apparel.
The store is engaged in a deal to bring Vineyard Vines and Crocs sandals to its renovated shelves as well as mainstream publication magazines.
None of these changes happened overnight. The school store worked with Steve Lazarus from the Prism Construction Company and project coordinator Tammy Zerbe to make a plan for the store, which was put into effect upon completion and approval.
The renovations started in May, while the store moved temporarily into the library reading room. The basic dimensions of the store were not changed, but the storage area was opened up to shoppers. Also, the lighting system was improved and the checkout counter was moved. With help from Ed Griffin of the Choate Financial Office, it was decided that the school and the construction company would share the cost of renovation.
The redone store has become an immediate success and positive feedback has poured in from students and faculty alike.
