By Kris McBride/EAC
THATCHER – Eastern Arizona College marked a milestone in its five-year library transformation today with the official ribbon cutting for the new Media Center inside the College’s Alumni Library.
The Media Center completes a series of significant library upgrades, including modernized study rooms, the Student Learning Center, and the Career Services Center. Designed as a hub for digital storytelling, video production, and collaborative projects, the Media Center ensures EA students and the community are equipped for today’s fast-paced, tech-driven world.
Tammy Powers, EA’s director of library services, opened the event by comparing the Media Center to “the final piece in a 500-piece puzzle,” completing the vision of a library that reflects the evolving needs of modern learners.
“Today’s students need places where they can create, collaborate, and connect,” said Powers. “That’s what this Media Center is all about.”
Dr. Susan Wood, vice president of academic and student affairs, emphasized the Media Center’s broader impact, calling it a vital resource for both students and the wider community.
“This ribbon cutting isn’t just about opening a new space — it’s about affirming the vital role a community college library plays,” Wood said. “Whether you’re a student or a lifelong learner, this space is for you. For our current students, it’s a hub of learning, collaboration, and discovery. But it’s also a resource for our wider community — an open door for families, lifelong learners, and anyone who wants to grow.”
President Todd Haynie praised the library team for their leadership and reaffirmed EA’s commitment to opportunity and innovation.
“EA’s Alumni Library is in the business of making people’s lives better,” Haynie said. “If you need help finding a job, writing a paper, or just want a good book, this is the place. And these are the people who will welcome you with open arms.”
The community is invited to explore the EA Alumni Library, located at 3670 W. Church Street in Thatcher. Fall semester hours of operation are: Monday–Thursday 7 a.m. – 10 p.m.; Friday 7 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Sunday 6 p.m. – 10 p.m. For more information, please visit www.eac.edu/alumni-library.
About the EA Alumni Library
The EA Alumni Library serves students, faculty, staff, and the Graham County community with a broad range of print and digital resources, study and collaboration spaces, tutoring support, and technology services. With a collection of more than 50,000 volumes and a wide range of technology, tutoring, and research tools, the library is a welcoming hub for learning, collaboration, and discovery.
The library is located at 3670 W. Church Street in Thatcher. Contact us by phone at (928) 428-8304 or email library@eac.edu.
Hours of operation (Fall semester): Monday–Thursday 7 a.m. – 10 p.m.; Friday 7 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Sunday 6 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Summer hours: Monday–Friday 8 a.m.– 5 p.m., closed weekends.
Holiday hours may vary; updates are posted on the library’s website at www.eac.edu/alumni-library.
About Eastern Arizona College:
Since 1888, Eastern Arizona College has been the undisputed Smart Higher Education Destination, shaping student dreams into reality. With a faculty of qualified and caring instructors, EA is committed to preparing students for high-demand careers and advanced studies at top universities.
EA offers a diverse range of more than 90 degrees and certificates, including two bachelor’s degrees. The College is home to the state’s premier nursing school and a fine arts program that features Arizona’s only community college marching band. EA also boasts an engineering program that prepares students for success at top-tier firms and universities.
Beyond academics, EA is a vibrant community where students thrive, forging connections that last a lifetime. Experience on-campus housing, engage in over 30 clubs and organizations, participate in dynamic intramurals, and cheer for nationally ranked athletic and e-sports teams.
What sets EA apart is its commitment to financial accessibility, allowing most students to graduate with $0 debt.
Choose EA as your Smart Higher Education Destination. For more information, contact admissions@eac.edu or call (928) 428-8270.
