The spacious Student Union sits on the south side of the Barton Campus. The upper level of the Union houses Barton's Bookstore, College Nurse's Office, a Meeting Room, and the College's Foundation Office. The lower level houses the student newspaper office, Upward Bound Offices, a television/game room and the College's cafeteria. Student Senate and the College's Director of Student Life are also located in the lower level of the Union where many student activities are held. Besides food service with ample seating for eating, the Union features the "Crow's Nest" in the upper level where students can go to study, visit, or access computer terminals. There is also an ATM machine located in the upper level for convenient access to College campus students and visitors.
The Student Union opened in March 1972 as a place for students to gather on campus. The Union dedication took place on April 16 that year, in conjunction with the first Parents' Day at Barton Community College. Today, the Student Union continues to serve the purpose as a gathering place for students, whether it be for eating lunch, studying, visiting with friends, or participating in student activities such as bingo or student dances. One difference is that international flags run across the ceiling of the Student Union today, representing the origins of Barton's international students. The flags showcase the diversity of people that Barton Community College brings together among the varied communities the College serves.
