Education Commons^™

Case study of library reference unit and information technology unit cooperation and collaboration to provide seamless, user-centered service based upon a learning commons concept.

For the past decade the University Libraries at The University of Akron has been modifying and enhancing its services in response to changing technologies and user needs, as well as evolving campus strategies. Library efforts centered on service excellence and student success have played a leading role in the inclusion of a planned learning commons as one of the key strategic initiatives of the University. At this time the learning commons concept has been fully developed, while the proposed building renovation plan is underway. The Library, however, is utilizing key opportunities in the present to integrate learning commons functionality into …

This article describes the creation of a learning commons at a main campus library at a medium-sized, state university.

Internal document accepted as basis for learning commons planning at the University of Akron.