Designed by Robert Mills, a South Carolina native and the country’s first federal architect, the South Caroliniana Library opened in 1840 as the first freestanding academic library in the United States. Now, after a $10 million renovation and nearly a decade, the most iconic building on campus is reopening. Also: We meet USC alumni with degrees ranging from marine science to public relations who are making an impact at the state’s top tourist attraction, Riverbanks Zoo & Garden.