1. An Evolving Knowledge Landscape
The Physical Space
An Evolving Knowledge Landscape
“Transform the use of the physical library space to support collaboration, innovation and reflection”
Knowledge into Action Review recommendation

2. Physical Space Working Group – Context
Knowledge into Action Knowledge Services Audit 2011
Physical Resource Workstream
Document Delivery
Journal Archive
Book Collection
Physical Space

3. Physical Space Working Group – Context
Physical Resource Report – Knowledge Space Feb Explore the Knowledge Landscape
Physical library space  knowledge space
Storage to action  knowledge translation
Scope for innovation  collaboration/ new ways of working
Working Group: Lynn Easton NHSGGC, Lorna Trainer NHSGGC, Julia Green NHS Health Scotland, Dianne Mitchell NHS Tayside, Laiq Rahman Golden Jubilee National Hospital and Clare Scanlan NHS 24 (Chair)

4. Discussions and Dilemmas
No one size fits all
New models of space use vs. desirable dimensions
Core dimensions of knowledge space

5. Core Dimensions of Knowledge Space

6. Reflection and Private Study
Image courtesy of samuiblue/FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Reflection and Private Study
Users are multi-generational with an array of perceptions and attitudes to work and study which need to be acknowledged.
Much of the emphasis on space design is the promotion of collaboration and knowledge flow among users - still a demand for an environment that supports quiet concentrated work and reflection
Open plan work areas receive low ratings in terms of their suitability for creative working - “distraction-free” areas that foster creativity are essential.
Image courtesy of samuiblue/FreeDigitalPhotos.net

7. Enablers and Barriers Provision of meeting rooms/pods
Partitioned areas
Provision of headphones or similar devices
Physical convenience
Access point to information - a learning environment
Pro-active support and training
Emotional attachment
Combination of new technologies with traditional resources makes the library an attractive place – a contemplative oasis
Not always used
Noise levels
Uncomfortable; must have compatible machines/technology
Physical inconvenience
Electronic resources accessible from anywhere
No professional on site
Emotional attachment
Library can be defined as a “storage space”; designed around library operations rather than user needs
Competition for space/organisational priorities

8. Collaborative Space High specification technologies Learning
Social networks and virtual gatherings
Knowledge broker role
Flexible
Location

9. Enablers and Barriers Enablers Barriers Physical space Physical spaceIT
Organisational culture and politics
Knowledge brokers
Physical space IT
Organisational culture and politics

10. Virtual Space Virtual collections:
provide immediate access to a range of resources
can be updated more frequently
can make life easier for users and
can prove a valuable adjunct to physical libraries
Facilitates virtual gatherings and knowledge sharing on social networks
Eliminates geographical barriers to knowledge access

11. Virtual Space Barriers Enablers
Limitations of IT infrastructure – accessing computers
Software limitations - multiple logins, differing supplier platforms etc
User and staff reluctance to changing landscape
Finance, staff shortages
Enablers
Technological Capacity
Drive for greater efficiency and economy
Drive to improve access and strive towards equity of access
Easier to update electronic resources

12. Knowledge Professional expertise
Identifies appropriate knowledge resources according to need
Organises knowledge resources
Packages knowledge resources into easy-to-use formats
Supports sharing of knowledge and skills
Provides guidance and training in the identification and use of knowledge resources, and in doing so build organisational capacity and culture for use of knowledge
Promotes and fosters connections between research and practice

13. Enablers Focus on evidence-based/informed policy and practice
Quality Strategy – ‘effective’ i.e. based on the best evidence available
Drive for quality improvement
KIA review – high level champions in the form of executive and clinical leads
Flexibility to provide knowledge support at point of need

14. Barriers
Lack of understanding of the work and skills of knowledge professionals
A focus on the library as physical space rather than the skills required to support the space and make it work effectively
Staffing and financial resources in the current climate
Insufficient buy-in from senior management
Belief that you can find all the information you need through Google
Being tied to the physical space

15. Four dimensions? Reflective Collaborative Virtual Knowledge Expertise
Over to you!