The Patrick Henry Library Information Commons
I had an interesting conversation with Ned Wolff, Supervisory Librarian, Patrick Henry Library, USDOJ, at a recent event at the Patrick Henry Library, about the "library as a space". I gazed across their versatile library space - newly re-designed - and out the corner windows at the gorgeous view, while Ned inspired me by talking about the concept of the "information commons". Given this, I did the obvious. I said, "Hey, Ned, why don't you write an article about this for the Government Info Pro?" And because I guess that I can be inspirational in my own way - he did.
Read what Ned has to say about this information commons project by the Patrick Henry Library staff...
Background: The Patrick Henry Library staff initiated this project in response to the growing demand for libraries to serve as multi-functional focal points for their users. As users move toward a greater reliance on electronic sources of information, significant portions of traditional library book stacks and layout are now shifting to “information commons” areas that support users with new technologies and provide a more open, “people friendly” environment. The conversion of designated floor space in the Patrick Henry Library from traditional book stacks to patron reading, research, and mixed use area improves the Library’s ability to provide customer service, and will help to accommodate persistently changing technology requirements.
Implementation: The public area of the library, which is located on the 10th floor of the building, is roughly 70' X 115'. The Information Commons is an area approximately 70' X 20' on the south side of the library. This area was formerly occupied by over 2000 linear feet of shelving that housed a collection of print materials, most of which had become available electronically in PDF format. Based on the electronic availability of this section of the collection, the materials that occupied the shelf space in this area were either relocated to other parts of the Patrick Henry Library, other locations in the DOJ Library system, DOJ component space, or recycled so that the shelving could be removed. It was key to quickly arrange for the removal of the shelving since the entire library had already been scheduled for re-carpeting in an unrelated project. We advertised that shelving was available for free on several listservs. In a fairly short period of time we had a taker for the shelving and it was removed from the space.
A Multi-Use Facility: The great advantage to this space is its versatility in serving patrons and library staff in a variety of functions:
- Independent work space available for quiet reading/writing
- Space can be converted within hours to 8 workstations for DOJ staff in a Continuity of Operations Plan emergency
- Potential access to DOJ component computer systems and email
- Conference area for various size group meetings/presentations
- Individual/small group teaching/training
- An informal area with couches and comfortable furniture
- Overflow workstation space for interns
- Space for lectures, social activities, receptions
- Opportunities for inter-organizational collaboration and exchanging of ideas
- Adaptive flexible space in support of future technologies
- Accommodates transition from print to digital content.
Furnishing the Space: The outstanding features of this space are the large windows on the south side of the building which provide natural light and panoramic views of the Capitol and downtown DC. With little budget money available for this special project, we acquired used furniture for free from the DOJ warehouse and a GSA facility that had furniture to give away. This included several couches, comfortable chairs, a conference table with matching chairs, side chairs, end tables, and lamps. Some money was available for moving expenses and such low cost items as a white board, easel, and power strips.
In order to enhance the multi-functional aspect of the Information Commons, we decided to divide it into three sections. As you enter the space on the right there is a lounge area with couches, end tables and lamps. To the immediate left is a conference area with a large table and chairs with casters. Further down to the left is a section for giving presentations with substantial seating. All three areas can be re-organized in different combinations depending on need.
Future Phases: In light of rapidly changing technology and changing service patterns, the Library staff will continue to actively procure and implement the adaptation of new technologies and develop more efficient use of space in order to increase connectedness with our patron community and ease access to library resources. As systems, access, and integration allow, new technologies may include WiFi wireless network coverage, video projection, electronic white boards, and print/scan equipment.
