Library Construction &
Renovation: It’s About More
Than Space
TLA 2015
Laura Baker
Abilene Christian University
• Comprehensive
Masters I
classification
• 5,000 student
FTE; mostly
residential
• One campus
library
Phased Construction
Phase 1
2004-2006 Learning Commons
Graduate Research Room
Phase 2
2010-2011 Learning Studio (AV creation)
2013 Maker Lab
Phase 3
2014 Compact Shelving
Ask the User
User survey and focus
groups
Goal: A space supportive of how
people really work
• Technology enabled spaces
• Pod design to facilitate group use
Phase 1
Inspiring work
environment
Graduate
Research
Room
2006-
2007
Deep quiet
zones for
serious study
Attractive
furniture
Technology
friendly
Flexible Space:
Moveable furniture
Reconfigurable
Proactive Service Model
Old research desk New research desk
Learning
Studio
2010-11
Audio/Video
creation
Maker
Lab
2012-13
Prototyping
Fabricating
Specialized
tech:
AV editing lab
Podcasting
studio
Group rooms
Tech embedded
in furniture
Design confusion:
Quiet rooms mixed
with social space
booths
What is this
space for?
Books to
Compact
Shelving
2014
Concentration
zone
Mixed reviews
Lessons Learned
• Have a clearly articulated master plan.
• Consistency
• Adherence to vision
• Priorities for spending money
• Behaviors drive the plan, not the other way
around.
Lessons Learned
• It’s about more than space.
• Renovation Learning
• Transform learning by transforming relationships
• It’s worth it.
Contact Information
www.flickr.com/photos/aculibrary/sets/
Laura Baker
Librarian for Digital Research and Learning
laura.baker@acu.edu