InfoCommons and Beyond

Williams College - a New Sawyer Library

2012-02-02T09:48:00.000-05:00

July, 2014 is the target date Williams College is working toward for the opening of a new Sawyer Library as part of a renovation and integration with Stetson Hall. The new library will house the humanities and social sciences collections as well as a Learning Commons, the Center for Media Initiatives, a café, and the college archives. "By collocating previously dispersed collections and services, the new library will create new synergies and creative opportunities for collaboration." http://bit.ly/y53ND6

Sawyer Library (1975) to be demolished (brief history here)

New Sawyer, east elevation (July, 2014). Architectural firm Bohlin Cywinski Jackson (BCJ) designed the project

Animated walkthrough

Construction site photos on Flickr

Steve Satullo's blog Eph's Libraries: Old to New traces the history of libraries at Williams, beginning with a collection of 360 books in one room of the original college building.

ALA Midwinter: Learning Commons Discussion Forum

2012-01-16T19:07:00.000-05:00

Sunday, January 22, 2012, 4-5:30pm
Dallas Convention Center, Room D174
http://alamw12.scheduler.ala.org/node/2290

Has your library partnered with academic support services to offer a “learning commons” in the library, or are you discussing/planning such a partnership? If so, please join us for a discussion forum on “The Learning Commons and the Academic Library: Using Emerging Technologies and New Partnerships to Build Student Success.”

Carrie Donovan, Head of Teaching & Learning at Indiana University Libraries, will speak about the processes and partnerships IU is developing as they redesign their information commons. Attendees will then have the opportunity to discuss how emerging technologies can transform both spaces and services. Be prepared to share your own ideas and experiences as well as your dreams for how the creative learning commons can support the 21st century student.

Yale Opens Its First Info Commons

2012-01-11T14:25:00.000-05:00

Yale Daily News reports today on the open house for the new information commons, officially the Center for Science and Social Science Information, located in the basement of Kline Biology Tower, a 1965 Philip Johnson building.

Yale administrators are hoping that the CSSSI will foster more collaboration and interdisciplinary work. An adjoining Cafe provides an informal space that will help humanize the Tower, which the Daily News reporter refers to as an "overbearing structure."

See my earlier post for details on how the library administration views the new facility.

Update: U of Denver's Penrose Library Academic Commons

2011-12-27T16:18:00.000-05:00

One of the more daunting challenges in a major renovation and repurposing of exisiting libraries is keeping the academic community informed about important changes and, yes, disruptions in service. The blog at Penrose Library has been tracking progress on the Academic Commons since March, 2011. Target date is December 2012. It's worth a read through the posts to learn how to stay in touch with the clientele and whet their appetites for all the wonders to come.
http://library.du.edu/academicCommons/

Information Commons Discussion Group Midwinter meeting

2011-12-19T17:05:00.001-05:00

Passing along this post from Rudy Leon, convener of ACRL's InfoCommons Discussion Group, regarding the virtual session planned for ALA Midwinter on January 11, 2012:

Hello all,
For Midwinter this year, the InfoCommons Discussion group will be meeting virtually. We're very excited to try this out. We've reserved an iLinc room via ALA, and will meet January 11 2012, 1-2:30 pm Central Time. The log-in instructions are below, and on the Connect space.

Our Midwinter discussion will continue the assessment conversation we had at Annual 2011. Don Beagle will kick off our meeting with a 20-minute presentation based on his EDUCAUSE report, "From Learning Commons to Learning Outcomes." This report was posted on Sept 27 by the EDUCAUSE Center for Applied Research (ECAR), and within 6 weeks had become the #1 most-downloaded ECAR research bulletin of 2011. Don's comments will also go beyond the ECAR report to look in more detail at 1) recent research into cultural impacts on user expectations of service delivery (especially pertinent to "Affect of Service" as measured by LibQUAL+® , and 2) recent research by Derek Rodriguez into library impacts on student outcomes in capstone courses, and how this might be adapted for Commons model assessment.

I'd like to extend this invitation to all of you: if you have information about service assessment at your Commons that you would like to share, please feel free to put together a PowerPoint slide or two and send that to Rudy Leon by January 9. Because of the nature of iLinc, I will need to upload slides ahead of time. Slides are not necessary if you want to participate, or contribute! But if you do have something visual you want to share, we have the opportunity to do so.

We've scheduled 70 minutes for discussion following Don's presentation. I'm very excited about this, and hope you are as well.
http://connect.ala.org/node/161334

Information Commons Student Assistant Program at Butler U.

2011-12-19T11:06:00.000-05:00

Butler U. (Indianapolis) has a unique model for what they call the Information Commons. It's a collaboration between the Libraries and the Center for Academic Technologies and it is staffed by "highly trained student staff members."

As described on the IC website: "The program intends to provide Butler students with research and academic technology support directly connected to course activities, student learning outcomes and pedagogical innovations through highly trained student staff members. Information Commons student staff members are trained in library research methods, academic technology tools, and consultation skills. They provide support for students, faculty and staff at the Center for Academic Technology and the Irwin Library through in-class and evening training sessions and 1:1 consultations." http://bit.ly/uksfOc

Two Butler administrators, Julianne Miranda, Senior Director of Butler's Center for Academic Technologies, and Sally Neal, Associate Dean for Public Services, will present "Information Commons Student Assistant Program: Meeting a Campus's Classroom Technology and Information Literacy Needs Anywhere, Anytime" at the EDUCAUSE Midwest Regional Conference in Chicago,on Tuesday, March 27. 2012. http://bit.ly/s9nuQq

Building St. Mary's Learning Commons

2011-11-19T09:49:00.001-05:00

Michael Chen (Executive Director, Academic Technology) posted a Prezi visual which does a very nice job of explaining the concept and the process that will result in a new learning commons at St. Mary's University in San Antonio TX.
http://tinyurl.com/6wl8qdu

GWU Gelman Library Renovation - Project Director

2011-11-02T17:41:00.000-04:00

Update to an earlier post. George Washington U. has advertised for a Project Director (Learning Commons and Renovation) to manage the $16M project. Seems to be a permanent position. "PMP certification is a big plus."

From Learning Commons to Learning Outcomes: Assessing Collaborative Services and Spaces

2011-10-25T17:17:00.004-04:00

Don Beagle, who wrote an early, influential article* and a book** on the information commons, is the author of an ECAR Research Bulletin reviewing six recent user studies of the commons model. http://bit.ly/oWxK4Y

From the abstract on the EDUCAUSE website: "While the studies used varying methodologies, their cumulative results indicate that the commons model cannot be evaluated by focusing only on design aspects of “learning spaces” or perceptions of “library as place.” These features must be balanced by qualitative reviews of service effectiveness and quantitative measures of service delivery. This bulletin concludes with a consideration of change theory as a possible means to extend service evaluations and spatial appraisals to assessments of learning outcomes." http://bit.ly/oWxK4Y

If your college or university is not a member of EDUCAUSE, maybe you should suggest joining.

*"Conceptualizing an Information Commons," Journal of Academic Librarianship 25, no.2. (March 1999): 82-89.
**The Information Commons Handbook, Neal-Schuman, 2006.

On the Horizon - Canadian Learning Commons Conference

2011-10-18T08:13:00.001-04:00

Call for Proposals – 6^th Canadian Learning Commons Conference

New Media, New Fluencies and Life Skills Development: Preparing Learners for the 21^st Century

We invite program submissions for the 6^th Canadian Learning Commons Conference, May 7 - 9, 2012 to be held at the University of Calgary in Calgary, Alberta, Canada.

Details at: http://www.ucalgary.ca/clcc2012/

The Trend Continues - Anne Arundel CC Library and Student Success Center

2011-10-17T17:25:00.001-04:00

Truxal Library at Anne Arundel Community College (MD), built in 1967, is currently undergoing a major renovation, expansion and reconfiguration as a combined library and student success center -- a mix of tutoring, computer commons, distance learning and other multifunctional rooms.

The new facility's infrastructure will be completely redesigned for efficiency and reduced energy costs. LEED Silver certification is the goal. See the full list of building features: http://bit.ly/n7uM1U

In the Works - U. of Tennessee, Chattanooga

2011-10-12T16:07:00.002-04:00

Spring 2013 is the target date for the new library at U. Tennessee, Chattanooga. Planning began in late 2007 and state funding ($48m) was recently secured. Construction has begun (live webcam).

Features include:

24/7 study space

Seating for 2,100

Information Commons with 200+ computers

40 group study room (3 sizes)

7 classrooms

Media lab
Special Collections Elvis Memorabilium

Building partners: Ctr for Advisement and Student Success, IT Division, Teaching Resource Ctr, Southern Writers, Writing Ctr.

The Building Project wiki has links to program statements, floor plans, and project planning history.

Go to: Flickr set of exterior renderings.

Clough Commons at Georgia Tech: Library + Academic Support Services

2011-10-06T10:42:00.002-04:00

A few years ago there was a flurry of activity, and some controversy, surrounding the merger of academic libraries with their campus IT organizations. EDUCAUSE even has a list of 35 resources on the topic. In some cases the merger held; in others it reverted to the original state: separate and (relatively) equal.

Recent developments involve a different kind of merger or bundling of services under one roof, usually the library's. These often started as "information commons" and grew or evolved into a medley of academic support services and became known as "learning commons" or "knowledge commons." The services might include tutoring, writing lab, media lab, academic adivising, first year experience, and lots of space for social studying, group work, collaborative learning. It's not just a computer lab in the library.

One of the most recent is the Clough Undergraduate Learning Commons at Georgia Tech. It is a 24/7 facility that includes many of the services listed above. It is located alongside the university library and has been "integrated" into the library organization, according to Dean of Libraries, Catherine Murray-Rust:
"At the end of fall 2010 semester, Provost Rafael Bras asked me and my colleagues to integrate the G. Wayne Clough Undergraduate Learning Commons with the Library. The Library was a logical choice for this important effort, not only because Library faculty and staff have many years of experience managing large academic spaces that service the entire campus, but also because many of the innovations that are featured in Clough Commons were first tested in the Library." Photos of construction and opening day.

A few more examples of this kind of organizational bundling: Seattle U. Learning Commons, Oberlin College's Academic Commons, Goucher College's Athenaeum, Cal Poly's Library and Academic Center.

"Uncommon Learning in the Information Commons" Conference Report

2011-10-03T19:16:00.000-04:00

“Uncommon Learning in the Information Commons” was the theme of the Ohio Private Academic Libraries 2011 Annual Conference last August. Chad Boeninger, reference librarian at Alden Library, Ohio U., was a presenter, and he has a good summary of all the presentations at his blog Library Voice. http://tinyurl.com/69gu9je

Some quotes to whet your appetite:

"Information Commons is not just about the building. With the changing of the library environment, student expectations of service will change."

"Someone asked ... about the noise level in Learning Commons environments... When the floor is packed with people, all of the voices together make a nice “hum” that drowns out individual voices pretty well."

"We no longer have a food policy. Long story short, if you don’t have a food policy to enforce, then you can’t get in trouble with custodial services for not enforcing your food policy."

Alden Library Learning Commons Ohio U.

Old Dominion's Learning Commons Opens

2011-10-02T12:18:00.001-04:00

The Learning Commons at Old Dominion U.'s Perry Library opened in September, 2011. It is a collaborative effort involving University Libraries, Computing and Commuication Services and Academic Enhancement. See the press release from 9/13/11 or my earlier post for details.

LEED Gold Certification for Georgia Gwinnett College Library

2011-09-19T17:12:00.000-04:00

"The 90,000 square-foot Library and Learning Center opened its doors in the fall of 2010. It has a capacity for 300,000 volumes. There are 37 study rooms that can be used for group and project work. The Library and Learning Center houses the Academic Enhancement Center, Quiet Reading Room, Heritage Lecture Room and the Center for Teaching Excellence. Additionally, Jazzman's Cafe is located on the main floor and serves light refreshments." http://www.ggc.edu/library/

"The building’s centerpiece is a three-story atrium that houses the Information Commons, an open study area providing a variety of furnishings for individual or group study. The atrium’s curtain wall provides impressive views to and from the central campus. Balconies and windows overlook the expansive atrium area from upper level floors." http://bit.ly/oHt5HK

"GGC's Library is the first academic library in Georgia to achieve LEED Gold certification, and it is one of only seven Gold-certified academic libraries in the U.S."

The Klarchek Information Commons at Loyola U., Chicago has LEED Silver. For more LEED libraries, check out the Green Libraries Directory, last updated April, 2010.

"The Best Learning and Collaborative Space in the Country"

2011-09-15T16:59:00.000-04:00

The Hunt Library, now under construction on the Centennial Campus of North Carolina State University, has certainly set a goal for itself.

From the Vision Statement: "The James B. Hunt Jr. Library will be a beautiful and inspiring “signature” building that embodies the essence of Centennial Campus as a community built around knowledge. Located on the academic oval, this iconic building will be a vibrant intellectual and social forum for the campus community, showcasing the latest technologies and research achievements of the university. The timeless aspects of the library’s mission as a gateway to the world’s knowledge will be reflected in the building’s design -- forming a dynamic environment that brings diverse people and disciplines together and enables interaction, innovation, and the creation of new, nontraditional partnerships. In the design of this landmark building, NC State seeks nothing less than to create the best learning and collaborative space in the country." http://bit.ly/oBjMZJ

NC State has posted a wonderfully rich and informative set of documents, photos, videos and testimonials:

The Hunt Library - The Spirit of NC State on YouTube

Gallery of Photos and Images

Project FAQs

Update - EDUCAUSE 2011 - Early Bird ends September 20

2011-09-14T15:37:00.000-04:00

Updating an earlier post announcing EDUCAUSE 2011 in Philadelphia, October 18 - 21. Early Bird registration discounts end September 20.

There will be a session on the Research Commons on Wednesday October 19, 2:30pm - 3:20pm.

Presenters include Grace Chung and Lauren Ray from U of Washington, and Scott Collard and Kara Whatley of NYU.

"The NYU and University of Washington libraries simultaneously created research commons, transforming physical and virtual spaces and integrating content and technology specialists to serve 21st-century researchers. They will describe their redesign values, goals and process, user assessments, and the resulting services and spaces. Lessons learned and future interinstitutional collaborations will be discussed."

"Commons Is So Last Decade" Says The Ubiquitous Librarian

2011-09-13T16:39:00.005-04:00

Has The Information Commons worn out its welcome?

Blogger Brian Mathews (The Ubiquitous Librarian) has challenged us to dump the term (and all its variations) in favor of tried and true Library.
"Just don’t call it a Commons: building the learning boutique model" http://bit.ly/ne2I8S

He makes a convincing case. Here are some provocative quotes:

"Libraries like to be able to point to a shinny new area and say “hey look, we’re modern—we have a commons!” But I think the emphasis then becomes on the technology and furniture, (and not the activity) which could be relocated to the student center, dorm areas, or an academic building."

"At UCSB we’re not using the term commons, but instead saying that the library is evolving. Our narrative is built around the theme that scholarship has changed and will continue to change and hence we are outfitting the library to address these various needs and academic activities."

"The central question is how do we design an environment that is ideal for the experience we want to encourage? How do we amplify and optimize the use of library space? It’s easy to just buy nice tables and lots of computers, but it’s much more challenging to design a place for experiences."

I agree with everything in those quotes, and with almost everything in the post. And yet...

I think we had to use something like commons to get beyond the iconic cliche of the library as the place where books are stored and librarians sit at the reference desk waiting for someone to ask a question. We had to overcome the resistance of some traditional librarians who objected to standing that concept and image on its head. Architects got it. The IT folks got it. And eventually a critical mass of librarians got it. But it took visionary librarians like Philip Tompkins and Scott Bennett to point the way. Their idea was to bridge the boundaries of print and electronic by creating a new organizing principle, a convergence based on user need, not traditional turf. Commons seemed to signal that coming together of service modes. And it is an evolutionary concept. As Tompkins told us during a consultation for our 1999 renovation: "The library builds the commons, then cedes it to the college. The commons becomes what the community needs."

It may be that the academic library has evolved to the point that our clients expect the library to be an "academic amusement park." (Brian's phrase) The open computer lab has evolved into a full spectrum academic support center. Witness the transformation of U. of Calgary's Information Commons to Taylor Family Digital Library. Or Goucher College's Athenaeum.

There are some exciting new takes on the evolution of the library as a learning environment, even, as Brian suggests, moving the commons concept out of the library and into places like the dorms. I've tried to flag some of those on this blog.

It's a great time to be in this business. To use a phrase that Flannery O'Connor borrowed from Teilhard de Chardin, "everything that rises must converge." What better place for that convergence than The Library?

Thanks to Carolyn Cunningham, Information Commons at U. Texas - San Antonio for alerting me to Brian's blog.

EKU's Noel Studio for Academic Creativity - an Update

2011-09-07T16:35:00.001-04:00

Updating my 2009 post on a unique renovation at the Crabbe Library, Eastern Kentucky U.

The Noel Studio for Academic Creativity has been open for a year now. It was featured in an article in LJ last November.

Tennessee Tech Opens Learning Commons

2011-09-07T08:04:00.002-04:00

Volpe Library and Media Center at Tennessee Tech University is having a rolling opening of the new Learning Commons .

It started with an open house on August 24, and continues with several events this week including The Amazing Commons Race, a scavenger hunt: winner gets an iPad. More pictures on Flickr.

Any Day Now - Montana State U. Library Commons

2011-08-30T16:23:00.000-04:00

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

2011-08-12T14:56:00.001-04:00

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

2011-08-11T16:57:00.000-04:00

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

2011-08-11T16:44:00.000-04:00

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

Zaha Hadid Designs a Library

2011-07-30T09:09:00.003-04:00

Currently under construction in Vienna, Zaha Hadid's first academic library building will be the centerpiece of the new campus at Wirtschafts Universitat Wien (Vienna University of Economics and Business).

Known as the Library and Learning Center, it includes services and facilities that might be called an academic commons: "workplaces, lounges and cloakrooms, library, a language laboratory, training classrooms, administration offices, study services and central supporting services, copy shop, book shop, data center, cafeteria, event area, clubroom and auditorium."

Light Show - Hunt Library, Carnegie Mellon

2011-07-13T11:20:00.002-04:00

This has nothing to do with the usual business of this blog, but CMU has made the Hunt Library a real eye-catcher. Read the article in the July, 2011 issue of C&RLNews.

U. California - Berkeley Launches Major Campaign for Renovation of Moffitt Library

2011-07-12T12:37:00.000-04:00

It's been a long haul since August, 2006 when U. Cal - Berkeley Library Administration began discussing a capital campaign for the University Libraries. (See the 10-page timeline tracking the project to a completion date of September, 2015). EHDD Architecture (San Francisco) has completed the design phase of the $50 million project and fund-raising has begun.

Moffitt is a five-story undergraduate library in the center of the Berkeley campus. When completed the "revitalization" will be most evident in the distinctive character of each level.

At the top or 5th floor is the Quiet Commons - "individual and group seating zoned for quiet study, focus and reflection."

The 4th floor is the Collaboration Commons - "technology-enhanced areas for discussion and team-based learning."

3rd floor is Community Crossing - "exhibits, cafe, new books lounge and portal to Gardner Library stacks.

2nd floor is Computing and Media Commons - "computing, media and guided learning labs."

Ground floor will house classrooms and staff work areas.

As you can imagine, the project has involved an army of participants who have produced a ton of documents and posted a trove of web sites. Here are links to a few:

Project wiki: overview, planning history, leadership and design team

Interactive floor plans

fiat lux, Fall 2009 Library newsletter outlines the major themes of the project: active and social learning; peace and quiet; technology-rich, going green.

Library Teaching and Learning Spaces Task Force - Final Report, 2007.

"Proof of Concept" Used for Academic Commons at Emory U.'s Oxford College

2011-07-11T16:58:00.002-04:00

Emory University's original campus was in the village of Oxford, Georgia, east of Atlanta. It is now home to Emory's Oxford College, a two-year, liberal arts program with an emphasis on collaborative learning and team projects. As the college developed plans to expand and renovate a 40 year-old library, Kitty McNeill, College Librarian, and Stephen Bowen, Dean of the College, used "proof of concept" or prototyping to introduce stakeholders and potential donors to what the new Library Academic Commons would become. By renovating a portion of the existing building as a learning commons, the college community now has "a working model of the learning environment that will be at the heart of the new Library Academic Commons."

More details in the Emory Report.

On the Horizon - EDUCAUSE Session on the Research Commons

2011-06-16T11:19:00.006-04:00

EDUCAUSE Annual Conference will be October 18 - 21 in Philadelphia. Lauren Ray, Research Commons and Educational Outreach Services Librarian at U. of Washington, will present "Creating the Research Commons: The New York University and University of Washington Experience" on Wednesday, October 19. Here's the description from the conference program:
"The NYU and University of Washington libraries simultaneously created research commons, transforming physical and virtual spaces and integrating content and technology specialists to serve 21st-century researchers. They will describe their redesign values, goals and process, user assessments, and the resulting services and spaces. Lessons learned and future interinstitutional collaborations will be discussed."

NYU Research Commons

U. Washington Research Commons

You can get an idea of what Lauren will be presenting if you visit her blog. She has been posting since the Research Commons was in design phase in Summer 2010. Includes photos and a report on the ongoing assessment of the Commons.

Or you can see Betsy Wilson's ppt from the ALA/ALCTS Midwinter 2011 talk: "Parallel Library Universes: A Case for Feverish Pink Paint and Virtual Vortexes." Betsy is Dean of University Libraries at the University of Washington.

AIA/ALA 2011 Library Building Awards

2011-05-19T12:01:00.001-04:00

Two academic libraries are recipients of the biennial Library Building Awards from the American Institute of Architects and ALA's Library Administration and Management Association.

Ohio State University's William Oxley Thompson Library

King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) Library, Saudi Arabia

An interesting coincidence: Joseph Branin, Director of KAUST Library, was Director of Libraries at Ohio State U., 2000 - 2009. Branin was the subject of Library Journal's "A Day in the Life Series" in 2007 while he was overseeing the $106 million renovation of Thompson Library. (http://bit.ly/kxxVNp)

Library Learning Terrace at Drexel U.

2011-05-13T16:36:00.000-04:00

The Chronicle of Higher Education ran a long piece last week titled "Tomorrow's Academic Libraries: Maybe Even Some Books," featuring Drexel University's Library Learning Terrace, a bookless, flexible space for study and collaborative work. The Learning Terrace, located in the midst of the residence halls on the Philadelphia campus, turns the Learning Commons concept around, putting the services and technology, if not the collections, where the students are.

Required Reading - Learning Commons Overview

2011-05-06T16:12:00.012-04:00

It's a couple years old now, but Mark Robertson's five-page overview titled 21st Century Learning Space is a great place to start your reading if you are about to propose or develop a learning commons on your campus. Robertson is Associate University Librarian, Information Services, York University.

York opened Phase One of the Learning Commons in October, 2010 as an integrated service including support for writing, learning skills, research assistance and career services.

In the Works - Brody Learning Commons at Johns Hopkins U.

2011-04-26T16:38:00.000-04:00

Named for a former JHU president, Brody Learning Commons will open in July 2012 as an extension to the Milton S. Eisenhower Library. Designed by Sheply, Bullfinch, Richardson and Abbott to LEED silver certification, it will feature group study rooms, smart technology classrooms, atrium and cafe. The Rare Books and Conservation/Preservation departments will also get new research facilities and conservation labs.

7 Things You Should Know

2011-04-22T16:41:00.000-04:00

EDUCAUSE has been running a series of briefs on emerging learning technologies. The latest is 7 Things You Should Know About the Modern Learning Commons. Authors are Joan Lippincott (Coalition for Networked Information) and Stacey Greenwell (U. of Kentucky). Stacey was Head of the Information Commons (aka The Hub) at U.K. before she was promoted to Assoc. Dean for Academic Affairs and Research. Her Uncommon Commons blog has tons of good ideas for innovative services and promoting same.

University of Michigan - Tech Deck

2011-04-21T17:01:00.003-04:00

University of Michigan - Tech Deck
Originally uploaded by McEntegart Library

U. of Michigan's Shapiro Undergrad Library styles its collaborative tech learning space as The Tech Deck, specializing in providing "you and your group with both the equipment and the expert and friendly assistance you need to create effective and media-rich class and group projects."

U. Denver - Penrose Library Plans for Academic Commons

2011-03-31T17:19:00.001-04:00

Still in the planning stages, the Academic Commons at Penrose Library project is gathering feedback and ideas from the community through a variety of surveys and focus groups. Check the progress on the project blog. Construction should start mid-July, 2011, with a timeline of 18-24 months to completion.

From the project's FAQ:
"Some highlights of the new building project include:
>Increased seating on the upper and lower levels
>Addition of deep quiet study areas
>More group study rooms in a variety of sizes
>ADA compliant book stacks and elevators
>Enhanced technology in all areas
>A new multimedia software support service
>A larger café with patio seating
>An academic events space
>Increased number of power outlets throughout the building
>Increased natural light
>Energy efficient lighting and mechanical systems"
http://bit.ly/h3bK0L

Terrapin Learning Commons at U. Maryland, College Park

2011-03-22T17:17:00.000-04:00

"Bigger than 3 basketball courts."

The 2nd floor of McKeldin Library is home to the new Terrapin Learning Commons.

And the university's HR website is advertising for someone to provide "leadership and vision in developing and
expanding the university’s new learning commons into a series of premier learning spaces for students and a showcase for the campus." http://bit.ly/gTEdZs

Renovation/Expansion at San Joaquin Delta College

2011-03-03T16:29:00.001-05:00

Belated congratulations to the folks at Goleman Library for the renovation celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on December 7, 2010.

Old Dominion U. Seeking Learning Commons Manager

2011-03-03T14:55:00.004-05:00

The Norfolk, VA institution seems to be doing it right. Early in the planning for an expansion of Perry Library, the learning commons concept was developed, tested and marketed through a series of campus presentations, forums and surveys. A Learning Commons Governance Team was formed in 2009 made up of representatives from University Libraries, Computing Services and University College, which will staff the Student Success Center in the new building. ODU is advertising for Learning Commons Manager to oversee "the daily operations, services and staffing" of the LC. You can follow the Wiki that documents the progress of the project, or read the fairly detailed press release from April, 2010. Projected completion date is October, 2011.

UMKC Renovation Nears Completion

2011-02-23T14:54:00.001-05:00

Miller Nichols Library at U. of Missouri Kansas City was an early and successful Information Commons. It opened in October, 2000. It is now part of a re-designed multi-purpose complex that integrates the Library and the New Student Union. Details can be found on the project's blog.

Yale Gets Ready for 1st Info Commons

2011-02-14T12:18:00.010-05:00

The Yale Daily News reported last week on the plan to merge two departmental libraries and create the first "info commons" on the New Haven campus.

Highlights gleaned from the article:

200,000 volumes from the Social Science Library and the Kline Science Library have been moved to a storage facility in Hamden, CT.
Kline Science Library will move into the Social Science Library while Kline is remodeled.
Following renovation the two libraries and the Social Science Research ITS StatLab will move into the remodeled Kline Library, which will be renamed the Center for Science and Social Science Information.
The Social Science Library building will be demolished to make room for new residential colleges.

The merger is viewed as an opportunity to combine "lab technology, library volumes, and study and meeting spaces... interspersed throughout the new space to encourage cross-field collaboration."

Nike Honors Joe Paterno with $400K Gift to Support Penn State's Knowledge Commons

2011-02-01T20:55:00.010-05:00

UPDATE (March 23, 2011) PSU projects put on hold Centre Daily Times of State College, PA reports that the Knowledge Commons expansion is one of several projects stalled by the budget crisis and the governor's proposed 50% cut to the Penn State subsidy.

Celebrating Joe Paterno's 400th victory as football coach, Nike will donate $400,000 toward the completion of the Tombros/McWhirter Knowledge Commons which has been in the works since 2008 when a Media Commons studio opened in Pattee Library.

According to the press release, "the Knowledge Commons will be a federation of services and repurposed physical spaces that will facilitate information discovery, collaborative learning, and knowledge building with a focus on undergraduates."

The multifunctional Knowledge Commons will evolve over the next two years. See the floor plan and descriptions of the various services.

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Rolex Learning Center - Lausanne, Switzerland

2010-12-21T10:23:00.002-05:00

Next time you are in Europe, try to fit in a trip to Lausanne's Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale where SANAA, a Japanese architectural firm, has designed a unique multi-purpose academic support facility.

"The Rolex Learning Center...will function as a laboratory for learning, a library with 500,000 volumes and an international cultural hub for EPFL, open to both students and the public. Spread over one single fluid space of 20,000 sq metres, it provides a seamless network of services, libraries, information gathering, social spaces, spaces to study, restaurants, cafes and beautiful outdoor spaces. It is a highly innovative building, with gentle slopes and terraces, undulating around a series of internal ʻpatiosʼ, with almost invisible supports for its complex curving roof, which required completely new methods of construction." http://rolexlearningcenter.epfl.ch/

Flickr photostream March, 2010

U. of Calgary - Information Commons to Learning Commons

2010-12-14T16:41:00.000-05:00

U. of Calgary's Information Commons was an exemplary innovation when it opened in August, 1999. (The original website is archived at: http://www.ucalgary.ca/IR/infocommons/)

On December 24, the original Information Commons in McKimmie Library will close, to be reborn on January 3, 2011 as the Learning Commons in the new Taylor Family Digital Library, known as TFDL.

Susan Beatty, Information Commons Head at McKimmie, co-wrote a wonderfully descriptive account of the development of the IC in her paper "Collaboration in an Information Commons: key elements for successful support of eliteracy." The paper also points the way to an expanded, broadly conceived gathering of academic support services that will make up the new Learning Commons in the TFDL.

A fuller description of the TFDL by Tom Hickerson, Calgary's Vice Provost, Libraries and Cultural Resources, and University Librarian, is in the video archive of his presentation at OCLC's Distinguished Seminar Series. The presentation is entitled "Convergence of Knowledge and Culture: Calgary's Design for the Future."

Seattle U. Opens Learning Commons

2010-11-24T16:48:00.001-05:00

Dedicated on September 30, 2010. Here's the website's description of the new Library/Learning Commons:
"Lemieux Library & McGoldrick Learning Commons combines new construction and renovation to offer a state-of-the-art facility of approximately 125,000 square feet.

This new facility blends student academic support services, scholarly research, collaborative learning, and social interaction in a technology-rich, light-filled environment.

The Library and its Learning Commons Partners -- Writing Center, Learning Assistance Programs, Math Lab and Research Services -- promote student success through the provision of integrated services, collaborative programs, and effective referrals that draw on a variety of academic professionals in a single facility."

See pictures and video from the library dedication.

U. of Washington Opens Research Commons in Allen Library South

2010-10-19T21:08:00.002-04:00

The iconic image of the information commons is a large array of PCs and iMacs for accessing electronic resources. UW's new Research Commons has a four word motto -- Talk. Share. Connect. Research. -- emphasizing the importance of collaboration and interpersonal contact. Twenty-five computers actually take up little of the Commons footprint, which features open spaces with wheeled furniture, whiteboard walls, and group work areas. Lauren Ray's blog keeps you up-to-date on the project. Go there for a link to a Flickr slide show.

Grand Valley State University (MI)

2010-09-16T17:31:00.003-04:00

Groundbreaking for the Mary Idema Pew Library Learning and Information Commons will be Tuesday, September 21, 2010 at Grand Valley State University in Allendale, MI.

From all indications, this is going to be a new benchmark for the integrated learning commons. The video gives a detailed picture of a wonderfully rich environment for all kinds of learning: collaborative, technological, scholarly. It won't be finished until 2013, but look in on the website now and then to see how it's coming along.

The Race to Bookless

2010-09-16T13:59:00.000-04:00

It used to be that when you wanted to take the measure of an academic library you asked, "How many volumes does it have?" That question seems to have been stood on its head. In the "race to bookless" the University of Texas at San Antonio has claimed victory. The Applied Engineering and Technology Library opened on September 8, 2010, claiming to be "the nation's first completely bookless library on a college or university campus." Although it is relatively small (80 person capacity), it does have "similar features to what are commonly called 'information commons,'" according to the report in LJ.

UNC-Wilmington Grand Opening

2010-08-20T12:31:00.000-04:00

Randall Library Learning Commons celebrated with a grand opening on August 19. Read the local paper's account. Flickr photo set documents construction since December, 2009.

Assessment of the Learning Commons: Three Perspectives from CNI Spring Meeting

2010-06-18T16:30:00.001-04:00

“Learning Commons: What’s Working” is a 66 minute video from the Coalition for Networked Information spring meeting, April, 2010. John Culshaw, University of Colorado, Boulder; Anu Vedantham, University of Pennsylvania, and Joan Lippincott of CNI spoke on assessment of learning or information commons. Available on the CNI YouTube channel (http://www.youtube.com/cnivideo) and on Vimeo (http://vimeo.com/channels/cni)

In the Works - Seattle University

2010-06-07T14:51:00.002-04:00

Lemieux Library and McGoldrick Learning Commons, currently under construction at Seattle U., will "renovate the 1960s-era library and build an adjoining high-tech learning commons to serve the university’s 7,000-plus undergraduate and graduate students." New learning environments include an Information Commons, the Academic Support Center, and the Media Development Center. The $55 million project is partially funded by a $10 million challenge gift from the Gates Foundation.
Links from the project website take you to the construction webcam, floor plans, furniture layouts, and a detailed report of a seating survey.

Ohio State's Thompson Library Featured in Chronicle of Higher Education

2010-06-04T14:24:00.013-04:00

Scott Carlson's article in the Chronicle of Higher Education, dated May 30, 2010, calls the renovation of Thompson Library at Ohio State U. "one of the most ambitious on a college campus in recent years, and certainly one of the most important library projects in some time." The library re-opened last September amid some controversy over a $109-million renovation that involved the transformation of the old stack tower into a glass-enclosed atrium and required the removal of 700,000 books to off-site storage.

Links to:

WOSU-produced 5 minute video on YouTube

Pictures from the library's website

The 2004 planning document from the OSU Libraries task force called The Learning Group. Scott Bennett, author of Libraries Designed for Learning, was consultant to the group, which saw as its goal the development of "a strongly and pervasively student-centered view of the OSU Libraries."

Opportunity knocks: Learning Commons at North Carolina State U.

2010-06-03T15:27:00.000-04:00

North Carolina State University, Raleigh, is looking for a Director, Learning Commons Services, to lead the planning, management, and oversight of the Libraries’ technology-equipped learning spaces, ensuring continuous innovation and excellent user experience. Works closely with students and faculty to identify and meet their changing needs, focusing on both the library’s physical facilities and its online environment.

Plays a leadership role in collaborative efforts to adapt and integrate Web 2.0 technologies, mobile platforms, and other emerging tools into delivery of information and services.

For required qualifications, vacancy announcement and how to apply, go to:

http://www.lib.ncsu.edu/jobs/epa/commons/commonsva.html

U.Texas San Antonio -- Phase Two

2010-05-25T11:54:00.003-04:00

Phase Two (completion date: November, 2010) will integrate tutoring and the Writing Center into the John Peace Library Information Commons:

New spaces on the library's second floor for the Tomas Rivera Center (supplemental instruction and tutoring units) and the Writing Center will create a one-stop shop for student intellectual engagement and support.
An expansion of the Information Commons will integrate an additional 50 computers. Ten new instruction rooms also will be constructed.
By popular demand, a new quiet study room will be constructed in the northwest corner of the second floor.

In the Works - NYU Bobst Library Research Commons

2010-05-22T10:02:00.000-04:00

NYU's renovation project will transform two floors of the Bobst Library into a "research commons." Work will be completed in November, 2010. A libguide charts the progress and describes the planning process. The project is the realization of a study begun in 2005 and reported in 2007 that lays out a detailed roadmap for creating "an environment that could be adapted to the needs of the future of scholarly research." The full report of the study is available at: http://library.nyu.edu/about/KPLReport.pdf

In the Works - Coastal Carolina U.

2010-05-17T12:23:00.000-04:00

Construction of the Bryan Information Commons, a 15,000 sq ft addition to Kimbel Library, will begin this summer with a target completion date of summer 2011. A student advisory group played a major role in the design of learning spaces and the selection of furnishings. The campus is less than 1/2 hour from Myrtle Beach, SC.

In the Works - SUNY New Paltz

2010-05-17T11:53:00.002-04:00

Sojourner Truth Library at SUNY New Paltz will undergo a $14 million renovation, including an Information Commons, scheduled for completion in 2012. They have also launched a search for Head of Information Systems, a veritable Johannes Factotum, responsible for "the overall direction, administration, and management of all library systems and information technologies. Specifically, the incumbent will serve as system administrator for the library’s integrated system (Aleph), enhance and monitor the library’s web site, supervise computer staff in equipment maintenance, oversee the applications for interlibrary loan and electronic reserves, implement new initiatives to streamline operations and improve existing services, and provide expertise in the areas of emerging technologies."

Conference in Florida - June 7-8, 2010

2010-04-21T10:36:00.002-04:00

Florida State U. is hosting "Academic Learning Spaces: Invention, (Re)Invention and Innovation" in Tallahassee, June 7-8, 2010.

Crit Stuart, formerly at ARL and Georgia Tech, is the facilitator. Stuart is an advocate and successful practitioner of user-centered design, i.e., avoiding the template or one-size-fits-all approach to planning new or renovated library/learning spaces. ARL posted a very good bibliography, New Thinking on Space & Facilities, with links to five of Stuart's publications and presentations.

Registration is limited to 150 to allow for lots of hands-on work during the two-day conference.
http://www.lib.fsu.edu/events/academic-learning-spaces/index.html

In the Works - Old Dominion University

2010-04-09T11:05:00.005-04:00

Morel Fry, Administrative Services Librarian at Old Dominion U. in Norfolk, VA, passed along some information about ODU's Learning Commons project, which is being documented and tracked via the Learning Commons Wiki.

"Old Dominion University Library in collaboration with our Office of Computing and Communications Services and University College is also in the process of building a Learning Commons. Construction will start in May and add 8000 square feet to the library as part of a 20,000 sq. ft. renovation of the first floor into a learning commons with enhanced technology, University college services and library services. The commons will be open 24/5, will have 5 collaboration rooms, presentation room, multi-media room (with sound booth), and have a café. There will also be a 30,000 sq. ft. addition to the library that will house University College staff. At ODU, University college services include freshman and transfer orientation and parent programs, placement testing, academic advising, mentoring and tutoring, learning communities, career management, experiential learning evaluation, developmental course offerings, academic continuance, and student success programs."

Go to the WIKI.

...and Beyond -- Goucher College's Athenaeum

2010-04-06T14:51:00.009-04:00

When I worked in Providence a while back, the Athenaeum on Benefit St. was a favorite place to spend a quiet hour or two, browsing the stacks or looking up a title in the half-high card catalog, some of the cards hand-written by calligraphic angels.

A new Athenaeum at Goucher College (Baltimore, MD) opened last September in a beautiful new building that should be on your list of site visits if you are anywhere near the east coast. In what is fast becoming a model of new academic facilities, the Athenaeum is a many-splendored thing: library, information commons, art gallery, public forum in a three-story atrium, radio station, restaurant, meeting rooms. Even an exercise area overlooking the atrium. And it's open all the time.

The web site is full of goodies: photos, videos, floor plans.

Athenaeum

http://www.goucher.edu/x17081.xml

Library

http://www.goucher.edu/x643.xml

Architect

RMJM Hillier

In the Works - York University Learning Commons

2010-03-26T14:48:00.010-04:00

Renovation will begin in April with a target opening date of September for the new Learning Commons @ Scott Library. Features include the Collaboratory, the Hub, the Salon and two Group Studies. "At the heart of the Learning Commons will be key academic supports and services offered by research, writing and learning skills partners."

PA Information Commons Conference Announced

2010-03-18T14:45:00.005-04:00

"Information Commons in the Wild: Lessons from the Field" a conference sponsored by the Pennsylvania Library Association - College and Research Division at U. of Scranton on June 15, 2010. Scott Bennett, author of Libraries Designed for Learning, is the keynote speaker, with panelists from Lafayette College, Penn State, U. of Penn, and U. of Louisiana - Monroe.

Essential Reading - Theory, Planning and Case Studies

2010-02-24T10:45:00.001-05:00

The latest two issues of Journal of Library Administration (v50 n1 January and v50 n2 February-March 2010) are chock full of good reading on all aspects of the commons phenomenon. The January issue includes conceptual and contextual essays by well-known commons experts Donald Beagle, Joan Lippincott, Martin Halbert, Michael Whitchurch, Leslie Haas and Alison Stillwell. The February issue is a compendium of case studies: Providence College, Texas Christian, Arizona, Georgia, Calgary and Sheffield universities.

In the Works - Libraries Planning for Commons

2010-02-23T11:53:00.000-05:00

Grand Valley State U. (MI)$70 million renovation and new construction of the Pew Library and Information Commons, scheduled for completion in 2013.

U. of Tennessee - Chattanooga: "Student services and technology are front and center in the new UTC Library. The entire building is designed with the robust infrastructure needed to support today’s and tomorrow’s technology devices. Students, staff and faculty can bring their own laptops or use one of the Library’s 400+ desktops and notebooks. The digital creation and conversion center will give students a lab where they can create and edit videos or convert analog media to digital, with help from specially trained staff. The learning and information commons will provide more than just computers and printing; Reference Librarians and Technology Specialists will be there, ready to assist, teach and troubleshoot problems with students. July 2010 is the target for beginning construction and we hope to move in by Spring 2012."

California Polytechnic - Academic Center Projected opening in 2013 "The Academic Center & Library, a joint collaboration between the Academic Affairs, the Kennedy Library, and a number of partner groups including the Center for Teaching and Learning (CTL) and Information Technology Services (ITS) seeks to provide enhanced learning, teaching, and research opportunities at Cal Poly. The project includes renovation of the existing Kennedy library, addition of space to alleviate deficiencies, replacement of classroom space removed for the building expansion, and development of specialized campus classrooms."

Rosemont College (PA) will begin renovating Kistler Library in mid-May for a September launch of the Remembering Sr. Helen Mary Weisbrod, SHCJ Information Commons "The Library's lobby and Reference Room will be completely changed into a single space with workstations, group study rooms, and a new information desk, all designed to enhance and encourage collaboration."

Princeton U. - Report on Kindle pilot program

2010-02-22T10:21:00.000-05:00

Here is the abstract from the executive summary of Princeton's experiment with the Kindle DX e-reader. The full report is available from the program's website.

"In the Fall of 2009, the Office of Information Technology (OIT) at Princeton conducted a pilot program using electronic readers (e-readers) in a classroom setting. The pilot was conducted with three broad goals. One was to reduce the amount of printing and photocopying done in the three pilot courses. The second was to determine if using this technology in the classroom could equal (or better) the typical classroom experience where more traditional readings were used. The third sought to explore the strengths and weaknesses of current e-reader technology to provide suggestions for future devices.
E-reader technology offered the promise of delivering a large number of digitized documents on a lightweight device with a long battery life, and a display that mimicked the reflective qualities of actual paper. The consumer market in e-readers had already proved it was possible to read on these devices; we sought to see if they could be useful in higher education by conducting a pilot using e-readers in several courses.
Three courses were selected for the pilot, involving 3 faculty members, and 51 students. The e-reader used in the pilot was the Amazon Kindle DX.
The goal of printing less in the pilot courses was achieved: pilot participants printed just over half the amount of sheets than control groups who did not use e-readers. The classroom experience was somewhat worsened by using e-readers, as study and reference habits of a lifetime were challenged by device limitations. This pilot suggests that future e-book manufacturers may wish to pay more attention to annotation tools, pagination, content organization, and in achieving a more natural “paper-like” user experience. In summary, although most users of the Kindle DX were very pleased with their “reading” experiences with the Kindle, they felt that the “writing” tools fell short of expectations, and prevented them from doing things easily accomplished with paper."

5th Annual Canadian Learning Commons Conference

2010-02-18T11:35:00.002-05:00

The Queen's Learning Commons will host the conference, June 16-18, 2010 at Queen's University in Kingston, Ontario. The focus is on the future, and, to tell from the summaries in the program descriptions, the future looks to be collaborative, student-centered, mobile, and ever-changing.

Program details here.

12 Keys to Library Design

2010-01-30T12:33:00.000-05:00

Thomas Sens, architect with BHDP Architects in Cincinnati, has developed a succinct and useful checklist for planning and designing academic libraries. There are two versions of it. A short version appeared in Library Journal in May, 2009, and a longer one in Building Design + Construction in December, 2009.

1. Envision the library as place.

2. Invite students and other stakeholders to the table.

3.Make collaboration a must.

4. See that technology drives the bus.

5. Plan for change.

6. Use the library to attract and retain top students.

7. Optimize spaces between spaces.

8. Consolidate emerging specialty spaces.

9. Take advantage of the commons.

10. Rethink library programming.

11. Design for environmental sustainability.

12. Get creative with funding.

Lest We Take Ourselves Too Seriously

2010-01-28T16:57:00.000-05:00

The mostly lol blog A Librarian's Guide to Etiquette has advice for would-be Information Commoners on a tight budget: "Do it on the cheap by renaming your existing computer lab with a hand-scrawled "Information Commons" sign."

Collaborative Learning Commons - UNC - Asheville

2010-01-27T11:10:00.001-05:00

U. of North Carolina is especially rich with innovative takes on the commons concept. Latest is UNC - Asheville's Collaborative Learning Commons:

"The Collaborative Learning Commons (CLC), currently being developed at UNC Asheville's Ramsey Library, brings together a variety of elements to foster student exploration and inquiry in new and creative ways. It is not a static computer lab. Rather, it incorporates the freedom of wireless communication, flexible workspace clusters that promote interaction and collaboration, and comfortable furnishings, art, and design to make users feel relaxed, encourage creativity, and support peer-learning. To this, add some specialized software, audio-video capabilities, self-help graphics services, color imaging, and production/presentation software catered to student learning and needs and it becomes a one-stop collaboratory for out-of-class assignments, writing, research, and group projects."

...and Beyond: U. of Nevada - Reno's Knowledge Center

2010-01-26T21:12:00.001-05:00

Who hasn't felt that the phrase "information commons" has worn out its welcome?

University of Nevada - Reno throws another hat in the ring: "Knowledge Center." And it's not just a part of the library, the Knowledge Center is the main university library.

2010-01-24T15:34:00.000-05:00

U. of North Carolina -Wilmington has posted a website for its Learning Commons, now under construction in Randall Library.

Planning and Assessment - The Commons at Georgia Tech

2010-01-20T14:46:00.001-05:00

The good folks at Georgia Tech have posted a very useful set of documents on planning and assessment: focus groups, questionnaires, a case study by Herman Miller, and fascinating essay by freshman Erica Hocking on the the Commons as a "Sacred Space" for learning.

Google Books Settlement

2010-01-04T09:42:00.000-05:00

ALA's Washington office links to briefs, statements and summaries.

New York Review of Books published several articles by Robert Darnton:

Google and the New Digital Future (12/17/09)

Google and the Future of Books (2/12/09)

The Library in the New Age (6/12/08)

And Peter Murray's blog Disruptive Library Technology Jester keeps tabs on all the key documents and decisions.

Cal Poly Stretches the Concept

2009-05-12T20:49:00.001-04:00

California Polytechnic has a brief description of the planned renovation to the Robert E. Kennedy Library. Scheduled to open in 2013, the expanded facility will be called the Academic Center and Library. Partners include the Academic Skills Center, the Center for Teaching and Learning, the Honors Program, printing services, ITS, the Peace Corps, and Research Scholars in Residence.

How Are We Doing? Assessment of the IC

2009-05-08T09:38:00.002-04:00

Everyone says their Commons is a good thing. Students love it. Gate counts are way up. We can point to all the good things we do and provide. But what good comes of all the changes? Are we improving learning? Are students doing better, producing higher quality work? Have faculty seen a marked difference since the Commons was introduced? Georgia Tech has posted a mix of user studies, focus group reports, questionnaires, and a first year report card.

Redesigning Library Services: A Manifesto

2009-05-06T11:25:00.001-04:00

Michael Buckland's brief but seminal book, Redesigning Library Services: A Manifesto, is available at the Berkeley Digital Library. This 1992 publication is often cited for its elegantly simple construct:

Paper Library > Automated Library > Electronic Library

As I noted in my earlier post today, we seem to be stuck in the transitional Automated Library, part paper, part electronic. One of Buckland's more practical insights is that local storage is optional.

"Just as the change from the Paper Library to the Automated Library, in conjunction with the rise of on-line bibliographies, changes our perspective on the catalog, so also the rise of the Electronic Library changes our perspective on collecting and local collections. Instead of our thinking being dominated by local collections, as is unavoidable with the Paper Library and the Automated Library, the effect of having electronic documents is to make local storage optional rather than necessary."

At some point, the cost of storing and maintaining paper and microform collections has to outweigh the "just in case" argument. Especially as more of the contents of those materials are available electronically. It may not be a book you can hold in your hand, but if the content can be read or viewed anytime by simultaneous users, isn't that a trade-off that cannot be denied?

ASU's Tech Officer's scorched earth view of library

2009-05-06T10:12:00.000-04:00

Adrian Sannier's keynote speech at last December's Campus Technology '08 conference lit fires under several academic sacred cows. Sannier is chief technology officer at Arizona State. He was responsible for moving ASU's student email to Google's GMail and saving $400,000/year.

His keynote ended with this not-so modest proposal:

"Finally, I suggest you burn down the library. All the books in the world are already digitized! Burn the thing down. Change it into a gathering place; a digital commons. Stop air conditioning the books! None of us has the Alexandria Library; Michigan, Oxford [UK], and Stanford [CA] have digitized their collections. What do you have that they don't? Why are you buying new books? Buy digital and let's spend some more time making those things level, flat, and transparent so a single search turns up everything we have. This has to change, because it's clear that people want to find information digitally. They want to search for it, find it, have it, and then amalgamate search results into a précis."

So he's for the idea of a commons-like gathering place. That's good. And he's right about the need to shrink our collections for the sake of efficiency. But we are still a ways from digitizing "all the books in the world." My experience with Google Book Search is that the "full view" items, i.e., those completely clear of copyright, are not what my students are looking for.

The title of his speech "From Context to Core" is a worthwhile concept. We have to work hard on defining the core for the institution and for the library that serves the institution. The Information/Learning Commons is a response to a newly defined core, a transformation in the definition of service and resources. But for a while we are going to have to support a transitional kind of organization, one that slowly but inevitably moves toward Sannier's vision. Just not yet.

Design Elements - Signage

2009-05-04T10:13:00.000-04:00

An Information Commons can be confusing and hard to navigate. Multiple service desks make it even more complicated. UNC-Charlotte considered the question of signage using Apple Store's Genius Bar as inspiration and posted a possible solution on YouTube.

Mobile library interfaces - what effect on the IC?

2009-04-30T14:57:00.003-04:00

IC's primary tool has been the desktop PC or MAC. Most ICs are wireless and many loan laptops. What about the shrinking interface? Netbooks? iPhone or other touchscreen devices? Follow the latest developments in library interfaces on userslib.com.

...and Beyond. A look at the future

2009-04-19T14:58:00.001-04:00

It's still in the development stage, but the Noel Studio for Academic Creativity at Eastern Kentucky U. takes the information commons concept another step up the evolutionary ladder.

"The learning experience of Eastern Kentucky University students will be radically transformed by the Noel Studio for Academic Creativity. The Studio embodies the standard EKU has set internally in its Quality Enhancement Program (QEP), a focused university-wide initiative to develop informed, critical and creative thinkers who communicate effectively. "

One of the more interesting elements is the organizational structure. A "Research Coordinator" will join coordinators for written and oral communication, along with tutors, to provide services in the studio. The coordinators report to the Studio Director, who reports to both the Dean of Libraries and the Dean of University of Programs.

Videos - fun and otherwise

2009-04-15T20:09:00.000-04:00

Good place to start: Sheffield Univ. "IC Girls" It's entertaining but it also understands the functional design of the building and its variety of learning environments.

North Carolina State U. Ribbon-cutting at remodeled Learning Commons. Good commentary and student reactions. Shows old and new design.

U. Penn Weigle Information Commons. To the tune of "Downtown"

Listserv Infocommons-l

2009-04-15T15:44:00.000-04:00

The list is for the discussion of issues relating to the planning, implementation, assessment, and support of information commons facilities that integrate the resources and services of libraries with enhanced information technology. List subscribers are also welcome to explore corollary topics when discussed in the specific context of IC management, such as information literacy, learning communities, faculty development, and facility design.

Click here for archives.

Conference May 7

2009-04-15T13:10:00.000-04:00

Information Commons 2.0 -- Lessons Learned and Moving Forward

On May 7, 2009, the Southeastern NY Library Resources Council is sponsoring a one-day conference at the Henry A. Wallace Center at the FDR Presidential Library and Home in Hyde Park, New York.

Go to the conference site:

http://ic-senylrc.wetpaint.com/?mail=1201&t=anon

2009-04-14T16:08:00.001-04:00

University of Southern California's Leavey Library, one of the earliest ICs, celebrated its tenth anniversary in September, 2004 with "a weeklong slate of activities, with opportunities for friends and donors, faculty and students, and the general public to participate in the festivities." The last two days were devoted to a "an advanced discussion among information commons professionals exchanging lessons learned, best practices, and models of operation." Information Commons: Learning Space Beyond the Classroom has links to all the presenters' .ppt or .pdf files.