We’ve all heard the chime from Altgeld Hall and gazed up at its tall bell tower. The building is an iconic part of the University and it is arguably the most aesthetically pleasing building on campus — at least we sure think so.

With its old, time-worn brown bricks and its large, fantastical tower, reminiscent of something out of a fairy tale, we can all appreciate the beauty — visually and aurally — of Altgeld Hall.

However, despite the appreciation we hold for Altgeld, few of us have probably taken the time to acknowledge the history of the building. Understanding Altgeld’s history is important and in line with why we are glad to see that renovations are finally happening to the building.

Built in 1896, it served as the University library. Then in 1927, it became home to the College of Law and after that, in 1956, it changed purpose again to house the department of mathematics.

As such, thousands upon thousands of students and faculty, both past and present, have walked through the doors of this building and used it to further their successes at the University.

And if you have ever taken Statistics 100, which is likely since a healthy majority of students take it as one of their general education requirements, you might have your class or taken your exam there.

Since the building’s purpose changed in the 1950s, though, not much change has been made to the building.

Though the math department has grown, Altgeld hasn’t, so the department is also housed in three other buildings on campus.

The building is also not the most accommodating for students with physical handicaps. We look forward to changes so that Altgeld can help maintain the University’s first ranking in disability friendliness across United States campuses.

With students and University faculty coming in and out of the building for classes and exams, it would be beneficial for everyone if the building was given more space and more accessibility, as proposed.

It will cost an estimated $90 million to complete the renovations needed, but that money would be well spent on preserving this building, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Restorations throughout the building, including the glass dome ceiling in the library, are also planned. For those students who spend their time working in the Altgeld library, they will no doubt appreciate it being brought back to its full potential.

Situated between Alma Mater and the Quad, Altgeld holds an important location on our campus, and its unique architecture adds to its memorability. We look forward to the renovations that will allow Altgeld to maintain its prominent, regal place on our campus.