MOBILE, Ala. –  A new chapter is beginning at the University of Mobile’s J.L. Bedsole Library. Thanks to a generous grant from the J.L Bedsole Foundation and other supporters, University of Mobile’s Bedsole library recently completed a major renovation. The campus landmark has been renewed as a vibrant space where students can study, gather and grow in their faith For the Kingdom. To the World.

The newly renovated library, located on the second floor of Bedsole Commons, offers beautiful spaces designed around the student experience, including updated study areas, collaborative rooms, new furnishings, an inviting central area, a classroom and a stunning Honors Room.

More than a renovation, the new space reflects the University of Mobile’s commitment to cultivating an environment where academic excellence and Christian faith are woven together. Here, students are encouraged not only to pursue knowledge, but to grow in wisdom, deepen their faith and discern how God is calling them to use their gifts for His glory.

The library also received a generous gift from Lifeway Christian Resources of approximately 1,300 books. The new materials, sponsored by Lifeway and regional churches, strengthen the library’s collection and provide students with valuable resources for academic study and spiritual growth.

Ryan Blackwell, president and CEO of Lifeway, said the organization is grateful for the opportunity to support the university’s mission of preparing students to follow God’s calling.

“Lifeway is honored to invest in the University of Mobile’s library expansion,” Blackwell said. “As the university equips students to follow God’s calling on their lives, our prayer is that these resources will deepen their faith and help prepare them to serve Christ wherever He leads. We’re thankful for the opportunity to come alongside the University of Mobile and are trusting that God will use His truth to shape future leaders who will serve His church and advance the gospel.”

The renovation project was made possible through the generosity of the J.L. Bedsole Foundation, churches and ministry partners who believe in the mission of the University of Mobile.

The J.L. Bedsole Foundation began with Joseph Linyer Bedsole, a respected Mobile businessman, civic leader and devoted Christian whose commitment to education and service helped shape the community. Bedsole was the first chairman of the University of Mobile’s Board of Trustees and one of the leaders who helped establish what would become Mobile College. The J.L. Bedsole Library, dedicated in 1971, continues to honor his legacy of investing in education and the community.

“We deeply appreciate the Bedsole Foundation’s longstanding commitment to education and community impact,” said University of Mobile President Charles Smith. “It’s impossible to tell the University of Mobile story without mentioning J.L. Bedsole and the work of the Bedsole Foundation. This dear family and foundation have supported the University of Mobile from our earliest days, and their continued support is impacting the lives of thousands of students here at UM.”

Chris Lee, executive director of the J.L. Bedsole Foundation, said the university’s commitment to education aligns closely with the foundation’s longstanding mission.

“Education has always been a key investment area of the J. L. Bedsole Foundation, and the University of Mobile has been an excellent steward of the legacy and intent of Mr. Bedsole,” Lee said.

The university also gratefully recognizes the churches and ministry partners whose generosity helped make the renovations possible, including Spring Hill Baptist Church, Cottage Hill Baptist Church, 3Circle Church, Woodmont Baptist Church, Redemption Church, First Baptist Church Prattville, Whitesburg Baptist Church and the Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions.

“We are grateful for their continued investment in the lives of our students and campus,” said Dr. Nathan Harris, vice president for institutional relations.

The University of Mobile will officially celebrate the completion of the J.L. Bedsole Library renovations with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Oct. 22, 2026. The time will be announced at a later date. Alumni, friends, donors, community members and the campus community are invited to join the celebration.

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university pursuing excellence “For the Kingdom. To the World.” With a vision to multiply Kingdom leaders for the glory of God and the good of the world, the university equips students through Christ-centered learning and community to pursue God’s calling with courage, purpose and Kingdom impact.

The university was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, UM offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Learn more at //umobile.edu/um-info and connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.