Why College Libraries Need A Learning Commons

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Why College Libraries Need A Learning Commons

Source: Rod Library @ UNI - Flickr

You might be wondering, "What is a learning commons?" According to the American Library Association's March 2014 issue of College & Research Libraries News, learning commons is "a place where students practice collaborative learning to turn information into knowledge, each unit has strengthened its ability to enhance student learning."

In the fall of 2014, Rod Library, at the University of Northern Iowa, transformed the main floor into a learning commons. A glimpse can be seen in the picture above. The purpose of the Learning Commons is as follows: "is a vibrant, comfortable social space equipped with 21st-century tools, technology, and services that support students’ academic success." Rod Library's Learning Commons' motto is Connect, Create, Innovate, and Succeed.

Ways to Connect: 

Source: Book Bistro Area - Rod Library

• Attend events, like Rod Con, at Rod Library.
• Work on group projects, meet with friends, professors, etc..
• Relax in comfortable seating options.
• Adaptable collaborative stations are available.
• Enjoy Starbucks coffee or a grilled cheese sandwich around at the Book Bistro.

Ways to Create:

Source: Makerspace - Rod Library

• Digital Media Hub, powered by the Production House.
• 3-D printer for use.
• Talk to a Media Consultant for any technology questions.
• Production Rooms equipped to add in any producing needs.
• Technology to check out, such as: digital cameras, video cameras, lighting kits, laptops, and more.

Ways to Innovate: 

Source: ScholarSpace - Rod Library

• Makerspace, located in room 286, houses the 3-D printer, sewing machines, Legos, fabric, various types of glues, and more. It's open to the students, faculty, and staff, as well as the public.
• ScholarSpace, room 301, a place to hold professional meetings, presentations/performances, and class sessions.
• Projection/Whiteboard wall, located next the Tech Desk.
• 3-D printing and scanning.
• Learning Commons Exhibition Wall, located across from the Dichotomy.

 Ways to Succeed:

Source: Need help? AskUs! - Rod Library

• Research Librarians answer questions at the Research Help Desk Monday-Thursday from 12-4 p.m.
• AskUs! chat is available for any research questions.
• Tutoring courtesy of the A-Team on Sunday nights from 6-8 p.m. in room 287.
• Printers on every floor, scanners, and copiers available.
• Media Consultants for assistance with software like the Adobe Creative Suite and others, technology, production rooms, and more.

Recent Twitter Poll

I recently sent out a Twitter poll, asking people what students, staff, faculty, and the public love about the Rod Library. The poll ran for a week. Here are the results:

What do you love about the @RodLibrary? #collegelibrary #collegelibrarymarketing #MarketingMonday #marketing #DatewithRod #ILoveRodLibrary

— Melissa Curtis (@SnapsMacsBooks) September 20, 2016

The results go hand in hand with each other. Apparently they like the Learning Commons and all it's features.

What's your favorite aspect of learning commons? Leave it in the comments below.

Stay tuned for next week's post! 

Sources:  

"Exploring the learning commons" - ALA's College & Research Libraries News 

Learning Commons - Rod Library 

Spotlight on Learning Commons - Rod Library