About the Project
In this fellowship, students collaboratively designed a library initiative inspired by the Vanderbilt Libraries, bringing resources, leisure reading, and campus connections directly into Zeppos College. Fellows worked closely with librarians, Residential Colleges staff, and campus partners such as the Margaret Cuninggim Women's Center, KC Potter Center, and others to envision a physical space that fosters reading, exploration, and community. The project emphasized hands-on learning in project management, design thinking, and outreach, as students planned the Zeppos library layout, curated books, and developed promotional materials like bookmarks and QR-coded resources linking residents to campus services, library collections, and programming. Fellows also explored sustainable models for sourcing materials, including but not limited to donations from campus reading groups, gently used or retired books from Vanderbilt Libraries, and contributions from other campus partners. The students worked on designing branding and signage reflecting the Zeppos College aesthetic, while leaving space for future student customization, ensuring the library evolves with the community. Students also collaborated on a sustainability plan and handover guide to ensure the library remains active and maintained after the fellowship ends. Through this project, fellows gained practical experience in collaboration, problem-solving, and creative design while creating a lasting, student-centered resource that enhances the residential college experience, increases awareness of Vanderbilt Libraries and campus services, and strengthens Zeppos College’s culture of reading and community engagement.
Mentors
Maggie George; Leslie Foutch; Dr. Jeong-Oh Kim
Fellows
Arnav Sakhrani; Alesia McFadden
Project
In addition to the physical library space in Zeppos College, fellows collaborated on a slideshow documenting their research and plans for the space.