Any Day Now - Montana State U. Library Commons

Services that had been temporarily relocated are in their new homes and Montana State University will soon celebrate the opening of The Library Commons at Renne Library. Here's the website's description of features:

--Flexible, comfortable furniture to accommodate both individual and group study
--Partially enclosed group study spaces
--Additional computer seating with improved workspaces
--Increased power outlets for easy access and convenient use
--Reconfiguration of key library service points for optimal ease of use
--Expert assistance for research needs and document creation

http://www.lib.montana.edu/commons/

Favorite Commons Photos

In no particular order, here are some photos that, to my eye, best convey the Commons experience.

Indiana U., Wells Library. Collaborative, active learning. Unposed. Love the open book next to the computer.

U. of Arizona, Information Commons. Informal, collaborative. Bi-level. Glass wall for group study. Mature white-haired guy in center, working quietly in the midst.

U.N.C. Asheville, Collaborative Learning Commons
Large monitor for group work, print materials nearby.

Daemen College, Research and Information Commons
3-story atrium, variety of work spaces, video wall, books on far perimeter, red chairs for accent.

Queen's U. Ontario, Learning Commons
One of the first things you do in a Commons is have a party. Invite the suits.

George Washington U. Gelman Library Renovation

GWU has approved a $16 million plan for renovating the entrance level of Gelman Library. The plan includes "a learning commons...featuring group study spaces with wireless technology and laptop bars."

Check this site for additional updates and information

The Library Goes Where the Students Are

Is this the new trend: librarians set up shop in dorms?

Earlier this year, Drexel U. opened the Library Learning Terrace "in the heart of the residence halls." And Jenny Dale presented at ACRL Philadelphia on her experience as a librarian embedded in the living learning community in a dorm at UNC-Greensboro.

Now U. of Oregon is looking for "a forward-thinking, collaborative and service-oriented colleague for the newly-established position of Undergraduate Services Librarian and manager of the East Campus Residence Hall Library and Learning Commons."

It's a real Johannes factotum job: "Reporting to the Director of Instruction and Campus Partnerships, the Undergraduate Services Librarian will provide direct user services in areas of teaching, research, outreach, technology, programs, and events in a welcoming and intellectually engaging learning environment. Active collaboration with the residence hall's live-in scholar and Resident Complex Director is expected. The incumbent will teach in library instructional programs, including First Year Experience and library credit courses, and develop customized outreach and instruction programs as needed. As manager of the Library and Learning Commons facility, the incumbent will mentor and supervise student employees, maintain the LLC web presence, and market library services and resources to residential students and other undergraduates using multiple channels, including web and social media platforms. The librarian will oversee computing and presentation technologies in the ECRH in close partnership with Library Systems and the Center for Media and Educational Technologies. The incumbent's work schedule will include evening hours to maximize availability to students and participation in events sponsored by the libraries and other academic partners."

And when do I sleep?

Deadline for applications: September 9, 2011
Expected start: January 2012
Facility due to open Fall 2012