NCSU Libraries Focus Online

Volume 25 number 2 - Winter 2005

New Spaces for Computing and Collaboration

By Carolyn Argentati, Administration

When the D. H. Hill Library's East Wing renovations are completed, the space that users will encounter as they enter the first-floor wing will be redesigned and newly furnished for individual and group study, computing, and reference assistance. This is the area where the current Reference Desk, reference collection, and patron computers are located. The concept that is guiding the redesign of this area is the "information commons," a model for space and services that supports student learning across the spectrum of research, collaboration, and use of technology.

In today's technology-rich learning environment, students must be able to move seamlessly from research to writing to collaboration and back to research in completing their course assignments. They require a ubiquitous and portable computing environment in physical spaces where they can work in small groups. In this renovated space, computers with a diverse range of software will be available, as will laptop-friendly seating with wireless network access, and individual and group study spaces. The space will also include a semiprivate area in which subject experts can meet with students and faculty to discuss their research needs and in which impromptu library instruction could be offered to a group of students who may be working on the same assignment. The first-floor space will also provide easy access to the services of the Learning and Research Center for the Digital Age one floor above, including the Digital Media Lab and the Collaboratory

The Libraries' vision is to offer a comfortable space conducive to learning that students will find both inviting and highly functional. The new space is being planned with input from many sources, including faculty, students, and members of the University Library Committee.