Learning Commons to open at the Claire T. Carney Library

The Learning Commons at the Claire T. Carney Library will open on the first day of the spring semester, January 26.

The Learning Commons, or LC, integrates library, technology, and academic support services for students, faculty, and staff. A cross-campus collaborative effort, the LC will be administered by the Division of Library Services, Information Resources and Technology with a campus-wide advisory group.

The first-floor LC is designed for undergraduates to study, write papers, prepare presentations for class, collaborate with groups, do library research, and get help with technology. Service Desk staff can assist with a variety of questions, from library and reference resources to technology services such as COIN, email, and support for software applications. Students can meet with tutors from the Writing & Reading Center in the evenings for help with writing papers. As the LC develops, additional support services will be offered.

The Scholarly Commons on the library second floor is designed for faculty and students engaged in advanced research. Reference librarians will provide expert assistance and instruction in the identification, evaluation, and use of information resources. The Center for Teaching Excellence is also located within the Scholarly Commons.

Two LC Training and Computer Classrooms on the lower level of the library are available for classes and campus-wide training and professional development.

The LC will be open during regular library hours, with additional 24×7 access during study and exam periods. The lower-level computer classrooms will be accessible for student use during peak study times.

As the university plans for the future expansion and renovation of the Claire T. Carney Library, the opening of the Learning Commons represents a major step in the ongoing mission to provide integrated library, technology, and academic support services for students, faculty, and staff.

For more information about the Learning Commons, please visit www.umassd.edu/lc/, call x8884, or email lc@umassd.edu.

Sharon Weiner, Dean of Library Services, and Donna Massano, Associate Vice Chancellor for Computing and Information Technology Services
Date: 1/23/09