Prior to mid-semester break, the library staff added over 30 new spaces to study on the third floor of the library. On Wednesday, a series of new outlets were installed in a select area on the first floor.
A survey conducted by the staff in 2015 concluded that the students felt there was a need for more quiet study spaces in the library due to congestion and high volume levels.
Liz Woods, information services librarian, who co-led the study spaces project with Anna Biszaha, graduate research librarian, said, “The furniture [on the third floor] wasn’t accommodating to group study.”
The new furniture consists of a collection of carols (single cubes) and pinwheels (quads). The staff was able to purchase the furniture after being granted funds through the Capital Improvement Project (CIP) that departments are able to submit to improve their programs and facilities.
“We were able to replace some chairs too,” Woods said.
A few librarians are conducting focus groups in the next few school days to get more in-person feedback about the library’s physical space. They are offering free pizza and pop for the students that participate.
Woods and Biszaha stated that the staff is very receptive to the opinions and feedback stated in the surveys and focus groups.
On Wednesday, the library introduced new Thread portable power outlets for students to use on the first floor. The Thread project was headed by associate provost, Terry Lahm.
The Thread was provided by an outside vendor for no cost in the hopes that Capital might like them and purchase more. Lahm said that the university is looking into utilizing this technology in the Convergent Media Center.
Depending on feedback, the university may purchase more for other buildings throughout campus.
Jessica Spaeth, junior, said, “I don’t think we need seven (Thread) in one area, but I like them.”
Students have complained that there aren’t enough outlets in the library for laptop and phone chargers during busy times.
Emily Smailes, junior, said, “They will definitely be useful during exam week.”
