Celebrating Two New Spaces at Tarleton State 

Tarleton State University marked a major milestone today with a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the expanded Dick Smith Library. The event celebrated the first phase completion of a transformative project designed to enhance student success, collaboration and study opportunities on campus.

The expansion adds approximately 10,000 square feet of modern academic space across two levels of the library, creating an environment designed to support a wide range of student needs and learning styles.

“The Dick Smith Library expansion is more than new square footage — it’s a vibrant hub for learning, connection and innovation,” said Tarleton State President Dr. James Hurley. “This space embodies our dedication to providing Texans with exceptional environments that support their academic journey.”

New features include a 24-hour student commons with flexible furniture for individual study and small-group work, as well as small-group study tables equipped with presentation technology to encourage collaboration. The expansion also offers a multifunction meeting and classroom space for instructional use and group gatherings, an inviting exterior patio with seating for outdoor study and relaxation, and a striking new front entrance off Texan Trace that enhances access and visibility for the campus community.

“A great university library isn’t just a place to store knowledge, it’s where students engage with the subject matter and each other,” said Interim Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Barry Lambert. “With this expansion, we’re giving students more ways to learn, practice and collaborate, in spaces designed for the pace and demands of higher education today.”

Named for philanthropist and scholar Dick Smith, the Dick Smith Library has long served as the academic heart of the Stephenville campus. From its early years in shared campus spaces to its first dedicated building in 1956, the library has received multiple expansions, including a major renovation in 1985 that doubled its size and added modern amenities such as an audio-visual room, computer lab and meeting spaces. The new expansion is part of the university’s broader efforts to enhance campus infrastructure in response to sustained enrollment growth and evolving student needs, reinforcing Tarleton State’s commitment to the student experience.

Texan Outfitters, Tarleton State University’s reimagined campus store now located on the bottom floor of the parking garage at 1875 W. Washington St., celebrated its official grand opening with a ribbon cutting ceremony Thursday, Jan. 15.

The new store, adjacent to the Buffalo Wild Wings, succeeds the former Texans Campus Store and offers an expanded retail experience with an even greater selection of official spirit gear, apparel, gifts and academic resources for students, faculty, staff, alumni and supporters. Featured premium brands include Horn Legend®, Kendra Scott®, Nike® and Bison Coolers™. Academic resources include textbooks, commencement regalia, course materials and supplies.

Hours are 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 12-5 p.m. Sunday. Customer parking is available in Lots P41 and 44, with access to the Washington Street garage permitted after 5 p.m. on weekdays and all day on weekends.

The former Texans Campus Store in the Barry B. Thompson Student Center closed Dec. 12, 2025.