Utilizing Library Space for Learning Opportunities

UNC-G's Jackson Libary was built in 1950 and added on in 1970, but is in need of a face-lift. Instead of relying on what the librarians thought would be best for the space, they went to the users to understand:

• Where do they study in the library?
• How do they study in the library?
• What are they using while they were in the library?

Through a three prong assessment technique, using surveys, focus groups, and observation they found:

• The top five reasons that students are coming into the library are 1 - to use a library computer, 2 - work on a project by themselves, 3 - study quietly, 4 - just walk through, 5 - meet a group
• The students wanted more physical access to the library building (24/5 hours)
• Undergrad students want group areas with lots of tables
• Students want to use library computers (laptops to check out and computers with software that students need to complete projects on them)
• Students don't really like carrying their laptops around (too heavy)
  
• Undergrads really wanted a "3rd place" to go to study
• Quiet space with soft seating is essential
• The circ desk was a bottleneck
• Grad students wanted library materials, but don't want to come into the library for library materials (they want it online)
• Students wanted a fax service
• Students wanted coffee in the library
• There are many things they weren't aware of -- printing, carrols, lockers, IM assistance

Space changes as a result of assessment

• laptop checkout
• expanded collaboratories
• added vending options
• opened carrel checkout to all students
• expanded 24/5 available space
• targeted marketing of IM, collaboratories and other services
• added messaging board
• weeded collection and added more study space
• assigned quiet and group study floors
• soft furniture in quiet areas
• tables and outlets in group areas
• moved circ desk