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TechnographUndergraduate Library's recent updates aim to please needs of student body
By Meghan O'Kelly
Posted: 9/27/06 Section: News
As classes kick into high gear this semester, recent changes at the Undergraduate Library are aiming to enhance students' academic performance, study options and comfort.
Visitors to the Undergraduate Library will notice that the four former information desks have been consolidated into one - located at the upper level entrance. Numerous signs pointing to the desk direct students to where they can find assistance.
David Ward, head of information services at the Undergraduate Library, said the Information Services Desk has now replaced the separate book circulation, video reserve, magazine and reference desks.
"It's been very busy," Ward said. "One of our main goals was to make sure it was easier for students to know where to go for help, and I think this has made things a lot easier for students at the library."
Lisa Hinchliffe, head of the Undergraduate Library, and Ward agree that they have seen less student frustration with the new setup. Jonathan Sorrell, sophomore in Business, said that the format is efficient and easy for students to use.
"I think it's helpful," he said. "I think it's easier if you can just go to one place than get directed to another desk."
A new materials display, including the library's video game collection and magazines, as well as a lounge area will soon occupy the space formerly used for the independent help desks.
To increase student utility, the Undergraduate Library also acquired 10 new iMac computers over the summer, which are stationed throughout the library's upper level.
Twenty new laptops are also set to debut for checkout at the Undergraduate library within the next two weeks, Hinchliffe said. The computers will be equipped with the same software as the library's existing desktop PCs. Like other reserve materials, laptop circulation time will be limited to two hours and restricted to the Undergraduate Library.
Along with designated small group rooms on the upper level, Hinchliffe said that the laptops will maximize collaborative work among students. The library's focus was on the individual student when it was built, she explained, and these updates are designed to fulfill increasing group project needs.
Visitors to the Undergraduate Library will notice that the four former information desks have been consolidated into one - located at the upper level entrance. Numerous signs pointing to the desk direct students to where they can find assistance.
David Ward, head of information services at the Undergraduate Library, said the Information Services Desk has now replaced the separate book circulation, video reserve, magazine and reference desks.
"It's been very busy," Ward said. "One of our main goals was to make sure it was easier for students to know where to go for help, and I think this has made things a lot easier for students at the library."
Lisa Hinchliffe, head of the Undergraduate Library, and Ward agree that they have seen less student frustration with the new setup. Jonathan Sorrell, sophomore in Business, said that the format is efficient and easy for students to use.
"I think it's helpful," he said. "I think it's easier if you can just go to one place than get directed to another desk."
A new materials display, including the library's video game collection and magazines, as well as a lounge area will soon occupy the space formerly used for the independent help desks.
To increase student utility, the Undergraduate Library also acquired 10 new iMac computers over the summer, which are stationed throughout the library's upper level.
Twenty new laptops are also set to debut for checkout at the Undergraduate library within the next two weeks, Hinchliffe said. The computers will be equipped with the same software as the library's existing desktop PCs. Like other reserve materials, laptop circulation time will be limited to two hours and restricted to the Undergraduate Library.
Along with designated small group rooms on the upper level, Hinchliffe said that the laptops will maximize collaborative work among students. The library's focus was on the individual student when it was built, she explained, and these updates are designed to fulfill increasing group project needs.
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