The First Floor Theater is a flex-use space on the main floor of Miller Nichols Library that can be converted from its primary use as an area with study tables to an open event space with a projector, screen and a sound system appropriate for presentations or performances. UMKC-affiliated groups may request to use the Theater for one-time events during Library hours with at least two weeks advance notice. Requests are considered on a case-by-case basis.
Theater Description
The Theater space is the open southeast corner of the first floor and is appropriate for events open to walk-in attendees. It is not an enclosed room.
Capacity
- Audience-style with chairs facing front: 60, with potential informal overflow seating for up to 100
- With tables for attendees: 56 at 14 four-person tables
Use the image slider to move between event space and study space.
Technology
- Projector and retractable screen
- Built-in PC to control projector content and sound; wireless keyboard, mouse, and clicker. You may connect a laptop but best performance will be achieved by using the PC with your UMKC login.
- Integrated sound system with overhead speakers
- Two handheld wireless microphones and microphone stand
- Wall controls for window shades, overhead lighting in audience area, and track lighting for stage and screen area
- As a flex-use space, there are white boards on the walls and hanging power cords where tables are normally positioned
UMKC Information Services (IS) provides support for technology on campus Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm. Contact IS at (816) 235-2000.
Eligible Groups and Event Types
- UMKC-affiliated groups, including recognized student organizations, may request to reserve the space at no cost
- Appropriate event types include lectures or presentations, performances, or events. The Theater is not appropriate for closed or private events. The volume and activity must never be confidential or potentially disruptive.
- When not in use for an event the space is open study for individuals and small groups of library users. This use will take priority during university midterms and finals.
Group Responsibilities
Your group is responsible for:
- Arranging a technology orientation with the library before your event. Someone from your group must schedule a short technology orientation before your event by emailing LibraryAdmin@umkc.edu. The orientation will be arranged with a library staff member during business hours.
- If you will not use the Theater technology you may decline to schedule a technology orientation.
- Library staff are not available to provide technology support during your event.
- Notifying the Library about food or drink at the event. Food and drink must be kept inside the Theater area during the event.
- Checking in at the Miller Nichols Library first floor Service Desk upon arrival for the event. A staff member will unlock the audiovisual system cabinet.
- Setting up the area. Chairs and tables in the space may be rearranged for your use. More chairs are available if requested at least two days in advance. After your reservation request is approved, contact LibraryAdmin@umkc.edu to discuss your needs for arranging the space.
- Bringing event signage such as tabletop, banner, or standing signs to indicate the nature of the event, welcome attendees, or signs for a check-in table. Signs may not be taped to walls or surfaces.
- Limiting use of the space to the Theater area, including event check-in.
- Arranging catering or other food delivery, including meeting and escorting food delivery personnel to the Theater.
- Cleaning up after the event, including cleaning up after food and ensuring that tables and chairs are clean and ready for use, and resetting tables and chairs to their original positions.
- Notifying the Service Desk staff when your event ends so they can lock the technology cabinet and check the space.
The Libraries can not offer staff support for your event beyond posting notices to library users that the space is reserved for an event, unlocking the Theater equipment and providing connectors, and offering a pre-event technology orientation.
Request to Reserve
UMKC login required. In the reservation system, choose the date and times you would like to reserve the room. Reservations open two weeks from today. Click Submit Times and complete the request form. You will receive a confirmation email indicating that your request was submitted successfully. Library staff will review the request. You will receive a separate email approving or denying your request. Contact LibraryAdmin@umkc.edu with questions.
All requests are considered on a case-by-case basis. University Libraries cannot guarantee repeat scheduling for any group.
