The Central Library at Kyung Hee University (KHU) Global Campus, operational since 1980, recently completed renovations through the University Innovation Support project. The upgrade was revealed on March 7, 2024, via the library's website. Starting on November 17, 2023, the project combined the Second Reading Room and Media Commons on the first floor into the new Buttor Reading Room. The second floor's Research Commons was renamed the Hyeyum Reading Room. The Buttor Reading Room opened on February 7, 2024, and the Hyeyum Reading Room on February 19, enhancing KHU's academic facilities.

What Has Changed?: The Buttor Reading Room
The Buttor Reading Room at Global Campus has transformed into a cafe-style environment with background music to enhance the academic atmosphere. It now features a combination of reserved and unreserved seating to promote a relaxed setting. Seo Su-hwan, deputy director of the Academic Research Support Team, noted that many students opt to study in cafes despite the associated costs. "We considered that students might prefer more informal spaces, akin to cafefs, so we aimed to create a similar environment within the library," he explained. Unreserved seating now includes couches, and music is played throughout the area, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Before the makeover, the room had only single seats and prohibited laptops, marking a significant change in its functionality and atmosphere.

What Has Changed?: The Hyeyum Reading Room
The Hyeyum Reading Room has transformed from a conventional open study area to a designated single study space. In contrast to the relaxed ambiance of the Buttor Reading Room, the Hyeyum Reading Room now exclusively offers reserved seating. Additionally, its functionality has expanded to include various practical services such as Study Rooms, Editing Rooms, and access to United Nations Archives, broadening its previous role primarily as an archive space. After renovation, the Hyeyum Reading Room introduces advanced technological amenities, including high-end personal computers and complimentary Adobe editing software, aimed at providing students with enhanced studying resources. These newly introduced facilities signify a deliberate effort to enhance access to cutting-edge resources and elevate the overall academic experience.

Reviews of the New Facilities
KHU students' response to the new facilities has been varied. Lee So-yeon from the Dept. of Computer Engineering appreciates the updated spaces. "It is great to use a laptop in any reading room now; previously, it was only allowed in the first room. So I visited the library more for the new facilities," she stated. Song Ji-seon, from the Dept. of Chinese Language & Literature, said, “I visited the library more frequently after the renovation. I also like that it is able to use a laptop more freely.”
However, some feedback indicates room for improvement. Lee points out a discrepancy between expectations and reality. “I was looking forward to the Buttor Reading Room, expecting a comfortable, conversational atmosphere. However, it remains quiet, making it awkward to speak out loud,” she said. Song mentioned, “I like the new facilities though, it seems to attract more visitors. The library is bustling now, but I prefer the quieter environment before the renovation.”

The Central Library at Global Campus has been revamped with the Buttor and Hyeyum Reading Rooms for comfortable and convenient academic spaces. Bookings for the spaces can be made via the library's mobile application on iOS and Android, or offline with student identity document cards at entrance machines. To assist students unfamiliar with the library, a reservation manual has been posted on the library website. While the First Reading Room offers 24-hour access during the semester, the Buttor, Hyeyum, and Second Reading Rooms are available from 6 a.m. to midnight. These improvements are expected to foster a greater enthusiasm for studying and provide students with better study environments.