In 1995 Governor Engler's office called Ferris State University to see if we might be interested in a $50 million authorization for a new building. This appropriation carried with it an additional condition: the University would provide 25% of the total funding, or $12.5 million. I quickly responded with a definite yes. Ferris has needed a new library for years; it was a wonderful opportunity that couldn't be missed.

The library has exceeded all expectations. There are many reasons for this, including the expertise in library planning, a cooperative spirit among all participants, and a lot of hard work. Another reason is that the design of the library was based on certain concepts that we wanted to maximize.

One concept I believed in was that the library building should be a cathedral of learning. In much the same way European villages were once dominated by a major cathedral, the library should tower over the village of Ferris! The architects did a wonderful job in catching that feel and physical dominance. As you travel down Perry Street you know you have reached our village.

Secondly, I wanted a signature building. A signature building, in my opinion, is one that stands out from other buildings and makes a statement. Its design can be used as a signature for the campus. Thus, we did not use the orange brick of so many of our buildings. The glass and limestone building truly provides a high quality signature for the campus. Quality of space was as important as quantity of space.

Early on, we concluded that we wanted a digital learning center and not just a traditional library. Under the leadership of Dr. Richard Cochran and the planning committee, we have concentrated our instructional technology services within the building. It is truly a high-tech learning center. Dr. Jerry Faverman recommended we name the building the Ferris Library for Information, Technology and Education (FLITE). We now have FLITE for the 21st century.

Other concepts were important in the design of the project. The States flexibility allowed us to build a campus quad, where the campus would have a center or heart. We were also able to reopen the entrance to the campus and place a large sign identifying the University.

The entire project has been wonderfully successful. It is reshaping the physical and educational landscape of Ferris State University. When the history books are written, the library will be a major chapter in the renaissance of Ferris. 

- William A. Sederburg, President, Ferris State University.