1. U of S Information Commons:
Reconfiguring the Learning Environment
David Fox
Head, Information Technology Services
University of Saskatchewan Libraries
April 9-10, 2001

2. What is an Information Commons?
a model for delivery of information services
student focused
a partnership of information specialists providing integrated services in a central place
Library
Computing
Audio- visual
Study Skills
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3. Impetus for the Information Commons
desktop integration
group assignments
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4. Components of the Information Commons
learning stations
small group workrooms
teaching labs
Information services staff
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5. Learning Stations Libraries Website Internet access email
laser printing and scanning
general "office suite" software: MS Office
broad-based, discipline independent software:
SPSS, ProCite, EndNote, Adobe PhotoShop, etc.
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6. Learning Stations, cont’d
resource discovery tools:
database selection "wizards”
common search interface (virtual catalogues, databases)
sophisticated reference linking
Library portal? (My Library)
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7. History of the IC Concept
First implemented mid-’90’s
Canadian sites:
University of Alberta
University of Calgary
University of Guelph
University of Toronto
U.S. sites:
Estrella Mountain Community College
Kansas State University
Lehigh University Oregon State University
University of Arizona
University of Iowa, Hardin Library
University of Southern California
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8. Our Interest in the IC Concept
First awareness: UofC Information Commons, 1998
Visits to the UofC Information Commons
D. Kichuk - April, 2000
A. Nussbaumer - June, 2000
D. Fox - November, 2000
Report to LMC: Dec 1, 2000
Discussion Paper: Jan 12, 2001
LMC minutes: Oct 12, Dec 14, 2000; Jan 25, Feb 8, 2001
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9. Why does UofS need an Information Commons?
need for improved student access to IT equipment, software, and online information
consistent with the Council ITC report:
Recommendations for the Strategic Application of Information Technology at the University of Saskatchewan
addresses key University of Saskatchewan priorities:
the student experience
promotes scholarship
improvement of instructional programs
provides a competitive advantage
provides justification for a student technology fee
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10. Does the IC have to be in the Library?
remaining relevant
maintaining leadership of information delivery
avoiding competitive disadvantage
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11. Promoting the IC Concept: What we’ve done so far
Circulated discussion paper to IT Team
several discussions with Assoc. VP IT & CT (Rick Bunt)
incorporated into draft plan for Student Computing
Phase I – Sept. 2001
- general access labs in Arts 110, Thor 132
- walk-up kiosk stations in Place Riel tunnel
Phase 2 – Sept 2002
- develop additional general access facilities
Phase 3 – Sept 2003
- Library Information Commons
- Library Information Commons – Phase I
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12. Information Commons: Phase I
20 learning stations in Main Library SRR, Sept 1, 2001
custom built carrels
full OPAC functionality
MS Office applications
incremental casual staffing
dedicated print station
ethernet ports for laptops
wireless access?
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13. Where Will the IC be Located?
Main Floor?
Ground Floor?
distributed?
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14. Conclusion Information Commons a trend, not a fad
an exciting opportunity!
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