Planning for the new Ross Pendergraft Library & Technology Center at Arkansas Tech University began in 1997 with a $12.4 million gift for the project from the Donald W. Reynolds Foundation of Tulsa in honor of Ross Pendergraft, class of 1948. The library opened in June of 1999, with the official dedication taking place on October 30, 1999.

Most photographs hereafter are presented through the courtesy of Arkansas Tech University Archives, Ross Pendergraft Library, Russellville, Office of the President Collection, Series 2013 and of Sam Strasner.

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Dr. Robert C. Brown, President of Arkansas Tech University, members of the architectural firm, AMR Architects, Inc. of Little Rock, and members of the Arkansas Tech University Board of Trustees are featured below at the announcement of the construction of the new library building. A large representation of the new building is shown next to them.

Arkansas Tech University President, Dr. Robert C. Brown, standing in front of Doc Bryan with members of the Board of Trustees and of AMR Architects, Inc. of Little Rock.

April 1997

Members of the Pendergraft family and Dr. Robert C. Brown at the arrival and positioning of the cupola on a still mostly empty building structure.

On October 30, 1999, Mr. Neil R. Pendergraft and Dr. Robert C. Brown address students, faculty, and guests.

Mr. Hal Cooper, professor emeritus of music and former director of bands at ATU, directs the musical ensemble at the dedication.

Mr. Neil R. Pendergraft and family next to the bust of Ross Pendergraft.

The director was Mr. Bill Parton.

Invitation

Program

Brochure

The director was Mr. Bill Parton.

The event took place on November 16, 2019.

The event will take place on October 30, 2024.