2006FallQ1.Response

Fall 2006, Question #1

One of the interesting developments in library services has been the notion of the “” where the traditional reference desk and the computer services help desk have been brought together in one integrated service point. This trend also builds on the fact that many libraries are now responsible for a large number of public-use computers. What are the assets and the liabilities of moving from the “library” to the “information commons” model? Answer 1) Briefly explain the library setting (UTK libs. provide services to University Of Tennessee students/faculties/employees **and public**) 2) briefly explain the Commons setting (provide services to University Of Tennessee students/faculties/employees only **No public**) 3) briefly explain the common interests of the commons and the library such as reference and circulation services The commons provides IT support and consulting • Check out laptops and video equipment • Multimedia production lab • Training and education classrooms • Adaptive Technology Center • Writing tutorial services • Career reference center • Printing • Smart Board equipments and training • Extent operating hours

Compare between the services, BUT, you have to emphasis on the information access in both, and added the technology assets of the commons

4) talk about the advantages and the assets of public- use computers, internet such as “The Internet offers a wealth of material, which enables the Library to enhance and supplement its existing collection. It allows access to ideas, information, and commentary from around the world.” Out of the net

5) Talk about the public- use computers policies (ALA) 6) You can apply the Intellectual freedom, BUT create a warning of using Internet and wave the environmental setting form liabilities or apply the censorship and use filters for /children/minors

(Jodie's answer)

Assets: · Attract more users by creating a more inviting and comfortable space · Possible revenue producer (if café involved) · Provide more useful services that the users need in one place · Provide more collaborative opportunities than traditionally offered (group study rooms w/appropriate equipment, couches, etc.) · Encourage intellectual discussions among users that might not otherwise come together (faculty + students, students form different areas of study, etc.) Liabilities: · Need space and money up front to create the IC (buy furniture, decorate, renovate, buy additional computer, a/v, and other equipment, etc.) · Moving away from the traditional model of libraries still not acceptable to some · Controlling noise level for those in other areas of the library that want quiet study space · Controlling food/drink in other areas of the library – smells, spills, etc. · More specialized staff needed to handle the technology aspects

(From Ronda)

Some thoughts on this issue:

Sometimes, it is difficult to differentiate between the assets and the liabilties b/c some of them could easily be seen to be both, and probably could be argued either way. For example: for some, attracting more users might be considered a liability in terms of space limitations (more users = more noise, etc., which are listed as liabilities).

Assets:
 * Providing a public service for the community (i.e., Internet access where user not required to own/maintain a personal computer)
 * Under "potential revenue": fees for non-member users (see "Liabilities")
 * Users might come to see the library as "one stop shopping" where they can browse the latest in new books, check their e-mail, study, and do research, without having to go to multiple locations
 * Oppotunities to host community relations-building activities such as brief "classes" on internet safety, searching, etc.

Liabilities:
 * Access can be problematic if the number of users exceeds the number of available computers: who (if anyone) monitors this, how are conflicts resolved, are timers set to kick a user off after a certain amount of time and if so, how is that time determined
 * Are users limited to card-carrying library "members"? If so, how can access be provided for those who are just visiting? Should access be provided to non-members? Are fees to be charged for non-member usage?
 * Access to objectionable sites. Are filters to be used, if so, how are they set. If no filters are to be used, are children allowed to use the Internet-access computers?

From Sara:

=__Fall 2006 question 1__=

> > 2. Extended hours of operation > > 3. Group meeting place > > 4. Computer access > > 5. Consolidated student services > > Liabilites: > > 1. Spilled beverages could destroy computers which would limit workspace > > 2. Major OIT problems would have to be defered > > 3. Incomplete training for staff and student workers would limit information access to all sources for the student's needs > 4. Limited access to printed materials after hours, and no access to printed materials located in library branches > 5. who to give access to From Laila Note: From Laila Note: the circulation services people on the disk take any request the user needs (printed material) and go to the stack and bring the books/ periodicals/ serials all night long
 * 1) Ability to take care of small OIT problems