Edging Ahead…

We’ve done our background research and the title, of course, begs the question;

• Where do we begin the real work of changing what we are into what we should be?
• Who should we involve in the process – and how should we use their input?
• After building a “state-of-the art” facility that didn’t anticipate the web, and spending years gathering “stuff”, how do we birth the creative workplace Web2.0 makes possible?

In other words, “What does a “next-gen” school library look like?

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Thanks to Michael Stephens for showing a way to start.  in his “Ten Trends” post, and before that, in his Nov,2008 post to the ALA TechSource Michael gives the nod to Dr. Carol M. Rose and Liz Wilkinson in his summary of “The Value of the Commons“, which;

• Makes connections.
• Puts students at the center
• Is built with student involvement.
• Is a welcoming, useful gathering place.
• Is a relevant, required space on campus.

Michael expands in the “What does this mean for libraries”, sections, suggesting that we, “Investigate what it means to offer a space that feels like “home” where access and information is unimpeded.”

Here’s are some of the things at ISB that help some of us feel “at home”;

• The MS Librarian and I greet first arrivals at 7:00 am each morning and one of us is usually here until closing at 4:30, by which time we’re down to a handful of patrons. Few are turned away.
• All library laptop browsers launch to our MS and HS library blogs, giving patrons “1-click” access to library tools.
• With 12 walkup and”quick-access” desktops, 24 wireless laptops at the circ desk, 24 in our Seminar Room and 24 on wheeled carts, we’re well supplied with wireless laptop access for all.
• Our desks are “on the floor” (MS in the MS teaching area, (HS) in the common “Pit” area). Although we spend time at our desks through the day, we’re easily accessible to all patrons.
• We play classical, Jazz or New Age music during quiet periods throughout the day. Although some call it “elevator music”, feedback is, on the whole, positive.
• Although stymied in replacing worn soft seating for the moment, we have consolidated remaining bits in the “Pit”, along with tables for 4 with centered reading lamps.
• We’ve retreaded HS Fiction Genres collections, with key genres (e.g. Fantastic Fiction) having stack “alcoves” for easy access and browsing/selection.
• We relocated our ‘800’s (literature) NF collection to the Library Pit, where it complements the reading tables and reinforces this area’s ambiance.
• We have a support staff of seven wonderful, approachable and very capable “ambassadors from the land of smiles” to guide and assist patrons when librarians are otherwise occupied.

Areas where we can improve;

• Post daily thoughts or updates on the library blog; something timely and relevant
• Have more student work displayed in the area, and more often. In recent times, we’ve fallen back on permanent/static displays. There’s always new work we can promote here.
• Back off a bit on the “quiet productive workplace” atmosphere. Student collaborations need space to share! Now I use a visual cue (hands spread to indicate intimate speaking distance) to show voices carrying too far. This gets smiles/apologies rather than pushback to a “Shush”.
• Find ways around the constraints of the “four chairs at rectangular table” seating model impressed on us by non-educator budget controllers.
• Change our stance on refreshments in the area?
• Add more independent task lighting to create additional personal spaces.
• Be more creative ourselves in our “office” space on the floor (more dynamic images, displays and seating arrangements, more evidence of “web2.0″ thinking. e.g. less paper ).
• Be open to any and all new ways to enhance collections, programs and spaces for maximum relevance to evolving student needs.

And once we’ve accomplished all this, what’ll we do this afternoon?…:)