The Marriott Library alcoves. Renowned among students, these coveted leather booths that beckon to students from the main hallway on Level 1. The little tucked-away pieces of plush heaven provide the perfect sanctuary for students to tackle their homework, attend online classes, enjoy lunch, or even indulge in a mid-day nap. The only catch is securing a spot in these sought-after retreats as students anxiously scout every alcove, hoping to claim one of these opulent beds, err… seats. Nonetheless, they’re very well-loved.

A total of seventeen beloved havens exists for all students to find solace amongst their busy academic schedules. Their allure spills out beyond campus and is even catching the attention of the community. A handful of these alcoves have been named for generous donors or in honor of impactful individuals.

There are a total of seventeen alcoves in the library, cherished by all students seeking solace amidst their busy academic schedules. Some of these alcoves hold special significance as they have been named after generous donors or to honor influential individuals. Hanging plaques in alcoves such as the “Maxine and Frank McIntyre Study Alcove,” “University of Utah Librarians Emeriti Study Alcove,” “John H. Quinn Study Alcove,” “alcove provided by the Union Pacific Foundation,” and “The Annie Clark Tanner Alcove” recognize the contributions of library supporters over the years. These names signify the donors’ philanthropy and their support for the Marriott Library.

There are a total of seventeen alcoves in the library, cherished by all students seeking solace amidst their busy academic schedules. Some of these alcoves hold special significance as they have been named after generous donors or to honor influential individuals. Hanging plaques in alcoves such as the “Maxine and Frank McIntyre Study Alcove,” “University of Utah Librarians Emeriti Study Alcove,” “John H. Quinn Study Alcove,” “alcove provided by the Union Pacific Foundation,” and “The Annie Clark Tanner Alcove” recognize the contributions of library supporters over the years. These names signify the donors’ philanthropy and their support for the Marriott Library.

Similar to other facilities on campus like the “Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine” or the “Huntsman Cancer Center,” each alcove is named after the donor who generously contributed to that specific area or in honor of someone the donor wishes to recognize. The process of naming an alcove involves establishing a connection with the donor and obtaining official approval from the university Board of Trustees. Once all the paperwork and approvals are in place, the alcove is officially named.

In the pipeline is the “Evelyn and Willard Smith Alcove,” which will be named to honor a library donor’s parents. Like other named spaces, this alcove serves as a lasting tribute to loved ones whose philanthropy has made a lasting impact on the library’s heritage.

Although it may be on a smaller scale compared to other named areas on campus, the naming of an alcove is a public display of long-term support for the library and the thousands of students it serves daily. These names narrate stories of significant legacies and represent individuals or organizations that aspire to see students excel in their academic pursuits. The alcove names symbolize a dedication to providing accessible resources, materials, and services to help the campus community succeed.