Metro-Atlanta Library Association's Spring Meeting Report - May 14, 2007

The Transformation of the Georgia State University Library Building and Services

Presenters: Tim Daniels, Head, Learning Commons Department and Sarah Steiner, Learning Commons Librarian

See the Library's dramatic redesign! Architecturally and organizationally, the Library's Information Commons offers its patrons seamless library and technology services in a high-tech facility!

http://www.library.gsu.edu/transformation/

The MALA spring meeting was held at the newly renovated Georgia State University Library's Learning Commons. MALA members and friends gathered and had refreshments in a new electronic classroom on the first floor. Then Tim Daniels, Learning Commons Coordinator, and Sarah Steiner, Learning Commons Librarian, told us about  the recent and ongoing, major renovations of the library, known as the Transformation Project.

We had a tour of the renovated facility, beginning with the first floor Information Commons. The Info Commons has comfortable study booths which include computers, as well as the circulation and service areas. It will eventually also house a coffee shop, a small Children's Section for the GSU School of Education, and the library's collection of recent periodicals. A highlight was a tour of the Johnny Mercer exhibit, a permanent installation on the first floor.

The tour then moved to the second floor Learning Commons, where the Research Support Desk (formerly the Reference Desk) is now located. The Learning Commons is intended to be a group-friendly research space. It features well equipped computers, round tables, modular and movable seating, and group study rooms. It also houses  the reference collection and a second e-classroom. All areas are now brightly lit and well designed to invite users to stay, and the grand staircase adds an air of spaciousness and grandeur.

Finally, we learned about the integration of ESL (English as Second Language) and IS&T (Information Systems and Technology) staff into the library space. Both departments have a presence in the new Commons, so that students can visit one location for a wide range of services, including reference, ESL, and IS&T.

A great deal of planning had to go into all the renovation of the facility and relocation of collections and services. We appreciated the insights we gained from seeing the new arrangement and hearing about the process from Tim and Sarah. The Transformation Project is scheduled for completion in October 2007.

--Special thanks to Louise White for providing the summary report of this meeting

 

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