Computer rendering of new College Store, slated for opening in the spring 2012. (Photo courtesy of UH Hilo)

Planning has been underway for several years for the University of Hawaii at Hilo’s new College Campus Store. And in March 2012, this $5 million project, funded through University of Hawaii revenue bonds with no state general or CIP funds, will be much more than a new bookstore.

The College Campus Store incorporates concepts derived from a 2009 Focus Group that consisted of students, faculty, staff, and community members. The new store “understands the needs of students, staff, and community members” by offering amenities that make people feel welcome and comfortable.

Besides the offering of course textbooks, materials, and school supplies, other new merchandise such as Vulcan logo clothing, gifts, and accessories will be available as well as sundry items, snacks, computers, and computer accessories.

The layout will be configured with an area for concessions and coffee, comfortable furniture for students to relax, study, work, or “talk story” with friends, computers with free Internet access, and big screen televisions that will provide University news, merchandise offerings, and public information.

One merchandise display will be dedicated to products developed, labeled, and marketed by students in UH Business classes from UH-Hilo, as well as other UH System campuses.

“We are excited for this new store; not only is it a place for students to buy books, but it will be a welcoming place to shop, eat, drink coffee, study, hang out and just enjoy,” said Dr. Debra Fitzsimons, vice chancellor for administrative affairs.

Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Dr. Luoluo Hong also anticipates the completion of the new College Campus Store.

“The opening of this new bookstore really supports UH Hilo’s efforts to create a more lively and inviting sense of community for our students. We need more places that add to the feeling of being a ‘college town’ and this is a great next step in that effort,” Hong said.

The new College Campus Store will feature ultra modern wood and metal displays that can be easily rearranged to meet the needs of the ever-changing environment that is retail: circular wood and metal information and check-out booths; efficient energy lighting in canopy and wire mesh ceiling material; and a concrete floor of earth tone colors to showcase the different sections of products.

“UH-Hilo’s new College Campus Store will not only serve the students of UH-Hilo and Hawaii Community College, this state-of-the-art facility will serve the Hilo community-at-large and be a popular destination spot for visitors as well as the general public,” Fitzsimons said.