Tuesday, January 13, 2009

Information Commons is coming ...

The last class of the day is complete. You have your assignments; you know what you need to do. Now, you wonder where to go next. Should you go to the Student Union Building? Or maybe take a chance and try to find a seat in the School of Business computer lab.

Eureka!!

You look across the frozen campus and see the library. You think to yourself, why not? They have quiet study rooms, two computer labs, laptops to checkout, wireless, and of course friendly knowledgeable librarians.

But wait, that's not all. Nielsen Library is in the process of building an Information Commons!!!

"What is an Information Commons?" you ask. Imagine sitting in a cozy, comfortable chair, working on a laptop, while the aroma of coffee being brewed fills your olfactory system.

In short, it is a innovative educational environment that allows students to work in private or collaboratively. This redesign offers students the most up-to-date technology, flexible work spaces, and yes...coffee! Along with coffee, the Nielsen Library Information Commons will offer laptops for checkout and other technology.

Ultimately, the hope is to attract students to the library. The goal is to create a seamless learning environment that allows students access to information resources and the tools for success. The information commons or learning commons concept has been implemented on college and university campuses across the map for many years.

Nielsen Library is in the beginning stages of constructing the Information Commons on the 2nd Floor. Soon, students, faculty, and community will enjoy researching, reading, visiting, and hanging out while sipping a mocha, latte, or even tea. The saying goes, "Anything worthwhile, is worth waiting for," and we appreciate your patience as the project proceeds.