Scholars and learners: a case study of new library spaces at Indiana University

Abstract

Purpose – This case study aims to describe the renovations and intended functions for rooms; explain the different design approaches implemented for the different end-user populations; provide an overview of traditional, new and non-library services for which spaces were designed; briefly explain training and planning; and describe the spaces and services that function well and those that do not. Indiana University Libraries completed two significant renovations in late 2014. They renovated the Learning Commons, which is a 27,000 square feet (SQF) facility designed to meet the needs of undergraduate students, and they created the Scholars’ Commons, which is a 15,000 SQF facility supporting graduate student and faculty research. Design/methodology/approach – Both spaces were thoughtfully designed to support new and traditional library services, as well as services supported by non-library units. Staff training and service planning took place during the construction process, with the goal of having outstanding services operating on opening day. Findings – The goal of creating flexible space was achieved, but it presents organizational and staffing challenges. Libraries seeking to create multifunctional environments must consider the practical implications of daily operation and use of such spaces. Research limitations/implications – This case study describes two library environments that are in their first year of operation and the assessment of the use and impact is underway. The stage of the work limits the research to be reported upon. Practical implications – The spaces described provide very practical information for other academic libraries that seek to renovate spaces and provide innovative services. Originality/value – Academic libraries that are in the planning stage of a learning space should take note of the variety of spaces, strategies for working with cavernous spaces, use of natural light and “bring-your-own-device” interior designs. In addition, the service hub model implemented in the Scholars’ Commons is a unique approach for digital scholarship centers.

A Multilayered Approach to Understand and Imagine Doctoral Students’ Spaces of Learning

“…It is worth mentioning that most of these studies that have been conducted in higher educational settings have focused more on undergraduate education (Ingram et al, 2013;Riddle & Souter, 2012;Rodriguez, 2018;Temple, 2008). To satisfy the growing need for spaces more conducive to learning for undergraduate students, an array of spaces for different purposes has been studied within the context of libraries, spaces such as non-traditional facilities like cafés (Harrop & Turpin, 2013;Stewart, 2011), group study areas, (Dallis, 2016;Holder & Lange, 2014), social learning spaces (Bryant et al, 2009;Carpenter, 2011;Chan & Spodick, 2014), collaborative spaces (Booth et al, 2012;Cunningham &Walton, 2016;Mei & May, 2018), computer stations (Bailin, 2011;May & Swabey, 2015), individual study spaces (Lux et al, 2016;Paretta & Catalno, 2013), as well as areas for solitude and quietness (Beard & Bawden, 2012;Cha & Kim, 2015;Massis, 2012). Despite the variety of studies on different aspects of doctoral education, its current situation and its potential possibilities for future research into learning spaces in doctoral education seems to be missing in the spectrum of learning space research.…”

Aligning the Stars: Understanding Digital Scholarship Needs to Support the Evolving Nature of Academic Research

“…Of the literature that exists, some common themes emerge. For example, a number of authors state that the development of their digital scholarship centre was informed by meetings or focus groups involving relevant faculty and students, although the process is not described in depth (Been, Lee, Hilyer, Malizia, & Thompson, 2016;Dallis, 2016;McCullough, 2014;Tzoc, 2016). Miller (2016) provided more detail about how one academic library library nurtured campus partnerships and expanded infrastructure to create a digital scholarship centre.…”

Applying spatial literacy to transform library space: a selected literature review

“…Looking forward, within LIS research, it is likely we will see new or advanced technology used in library spatial research, such as Indiana University's use of stop-motion video uploaded to heat-mapping software (Dallis, 2016) and mobile apps like CloudOn and Counterþ at California State (Thompson, 2015). Momentum is continuing to build toward finding ways to transform library space into highly innovative learning space.…”