The library, at the turn of the century, had filled its capacity of books. By 1905 the library's collection had grown to over 18,000 items.  The departments for books, magazines, pamphlets, and newspapers simply needed more room.

    After trying to persuade the legislature for many years to fund a new library building, President Seerley got his chance.  Homer Seerley and the architects Proudfoot and Bird were given the chance to report on plans for the proposed library to a Legislative Board. President Seerley presented the financial needs for the project. After hearing from both the architects and President Seerley, the Board moved and carried the motion to accept the plans and bring them before the General Assembly.

    When the issue came before the General Assembly, Proudfoot and Bird again gave their presentation. However, the Assembly wanted to investigate further. Members of the Assembly were skeptical of the idea of a "Teachers College." They seemed to think that it was not a place of serious learning. But, when a few of the members visited the campus, they saw "evidence of purpose" displayed by the students and the faculty. This visit resulted in a Joint Resolution to accept plans for the new building. Thus, $175,000 was appropriated for the expense of building the structure.  The appropriations came from a statewide millage tax. This type of tax was responsible for many other buildings on the campus.