Even though I've only worked in the science department since February, it's been interesting to see the changes that have been happening. We're in the process of condensing our reference section since a lot of material is being put online. We're also becoming more technology-based, I'm creating department blogs, and we're offering more courses on how to use online databases. We're also considering some changes that I can't discuss here. Throughout the library, we're becoming more technology-focused for the patrons. We've revamped our Information Commons and trust me, you can do anything there! Video editing, format conversion (including LPs, Videocassette, film negatives, etc.), software classes, conference rooms, scanners, etc. It's crazy! We've also put in a lot of lounge chairs and study tables, especially around the world classics and sampler room collections. We're also migrating to an OPAC that is more google-like and hopefully will do federated searching within all our database subscriptions!
We're not the only library doing changes though. Temple University recently closed all of their Physics, Chemistry, Biology and Mathematical Sciences libraries and built a new Science Engineering & Architecture Library (SEAL). This library is well-lit and aesthetically appealing for students and faculty. The collection policy has changed. They have an extensive reference collection, computers, and only the most recent 10 years of monographs in architecture, biology, chemistry, engineering, geology, physics and general science. To aid patrons in using library resources, they also house a library instructional services. Also directed to the new technological generation are several new online services such as Instant Messaging reference, new book lists, and a blog site featuring new tools, resources, library events and news.
Temple, BYU, and many other libraries are certainly becoming more user-centered. Online reference is a big help since many people cannot, don't have time, or prefer not to go to the library to do their research. These libraries are also migrating towards more open and inviting spaces and workstations that invite collaboration. This helps the patron feel invited to the era and more likely to study and do research in that area. The Shhhhhh! Era has ended. We have moved on to focus more on the individual user so that their needs are met and they leave with a positive experience. Science is becoming more cross-disciplined. Temple showed they could address that patron issue by combining its science libraries. I'm sure there are other ways we can be more user-centered, but this is a start.
Resources used:
http://blog.library.temple.edu/liblog/archives/library_renovations/2006/07/
10 comments:
It sounds like online technology has finally forced libraries to undergo a makeover. It has been close to 15 years since the Internet became mainstream and accessible in most areas. While some libraries made technilogical changes in the 90s and early 2000s, it seems like now is the next wave of renovations, yet these renovations are emphasizing online services and eliminating un-used printed items. The Temple BYU library represents this trend by combining all the sciences to create one area where users can access related subjects, yet not so much the printed items but to offer digital services.
I work at a public library and the same has occurred there. Management and Librarians weeded much of the reference collection because most of the information can be accessed through online databases and they've also added wifi.
Great post, Canadian Dave. Why Canadian Dave out of curiosity?
Besides curiosity about your screen name, I also agree that it is about time libraries moved towards a user-focused attitude and become the heart of the community and the heart of the campus. We need to be vital centers rather than expensive warehouses...
First - Angelica, Temple and BYU are two different universities. I was doing a partial comparison between where I work and Temple.
Second - Beth, I was raised in Vancouver and Calgary and didn't move to Utah until grade 12. You bring up a good point though - I like the thought of a heart of campus (that's actually where the library is located at BYU...in the exact center of campus) rather than just an expensive repository. We do have Special Collections for that function. Everything else should be practical. Which is why, I perceive, Temple did the mergers.
Our library has also converted our OPAC to a more Google-like interface (Encore). We're predicting that it will be much more popular with undergrads but there may be more resistance fro the older folk. Its interesting too how prevalent blog use has become as a way of reaching users.
I would say that is quite a start in being a user-centered library! Aiming towards a technology-focused library is the way to go in terms of creating a library of today. As you put it "The Shhhhhh Era" is a thing of the past. (However I do enjoy a quiet library, but I know what you mean by the Era). It's impressive to see that your library is not the only one on campus undergoing renovations. To be a part of the changes at Temple must be awesome.
Reading about Temple University consolidating several libraries into one multidisciplary area for information is great! It is cost effective and brings related science subjects together to work as a team. More information is made available and funding for additional materials may be easier to get because it is coming from several different departments instead of just one. The benefit to the user is one-stop researching for physics, chemistry, biology and other subjects. Libraries are learning to focus on the needs of their users.
I like the idea of the library being "the heart of the campus" as you said in one of your comments. I work at UNLV and the Lied Library is the largest building on campus, even larger than the Thomas and Mack Center where the Rebels play. The president of UNLV at the time said that the library should be large to demonstrate an appreciation for the purpose it serves.
I know what you mean about the Shhhh! era ending. that is true of the library I chose as well. It sometimes gets a bit rowdy but our librarians do a good job of reminding the patrons, usually little ones, that it is okay to talk and laugh but not run and scream.
Moving toward more technology reminds me of what my children who went to UT in Austin have said about their library. One of our classmates chose that library, but my kids said that the users of the library, all technologically savvy, prefer online research and access to lots and lots of computers in a comfortable seating environment to stacks and stacks of books.
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