CNI Spring 2020 Virtual Membership Meeting

The Sheridan Libraries at Johns Hopkins have implemented a new program related to student wellness that uses a large-scale display and associated touch screen within a learning commons. The program focuses on the use of digital games with demonstrated evidence to reduce anxiety, stress, isolation, etc. and research about whether other games could have similar benefits. Most recently, there is now even a physical presence of the Counseling Center within the Library’s learning commons. The research and implementation of this work is now one of the pilot programs within the Association of Research Libraries’ assessment program focused on innovative uses of spaces. As this program has moved forward, the relationship between the Library and Student Affairs has expanded, particularly as it relates to the construction of a new student center and the renovation of an existing library space. This relationship has highlighted new opportunities, and possibly new tension points, for both physical and digital space design within the library. Our experience to date has highlighted interesting and important examples about how to balance space needs for the library’s core mission with broader university priorities.
https://www.cni.org/topics/assessment/implications-of-student-services-on-library-digital-and-physical-spaces