University Libraries
Responding to Needs
By Maureen Schlangen
The University Libraries continuously solicit feedback on user needs and respond with programs, services, and spaces to meet them. The 2017-18 renovation of Roesch Library’s first and second floors will align with evolving research practices and technologies, maximize the knowledge creation process, and result in a flexible environment.
“We’re in a constant learning environment with our users,” said Hector Escobar, associate professor and director of education and information delivery. “We’ve adjusted our hours, equipment, services, and floor layouts based on surveys, floor counts, and service statistics, and we’re using the same approach with the renovation. Because of the scale, this is a great opportunity to comprehensively design spaces around users’ needs and best practices in learning and research, all with the end goal of better service.”
The renovation will retain the Libraries’ current services with research, writing, and computing assistance on the second floor during the first phase. The hope is to focus first-floor design so that it addresses technological needs while taking into account study and group project spaces with flexible layouts.
Library staff and faculty will be working with facilities staff to ensure that service remains at a high level during the renovation, Escobar said.
“We want to alleviate the stress of losing space temporarily, so we’re looking at different ways to deliver services during this renovation,” Escobar said. “For example, we may pilot scheduling consultations in advance. If certain pilots work well and there is a need, it’s possible we’d keep it even after the Knowledge Hub reopens.”