Framework for Renovation Planning Libraries Space Planning Committee March 25, 1999 In planning for the renovation of Hesburgh Library, we have tried to imagine the sort of library the University of Notre Dame will require in the 21st century, and to include in the plans the features that will help us to achieve that library. We have been guided by the Statement of Vision for the University Libraries, and by its Mission. The following goals suggest certain uses of space which should be considered for incorporation into the master plan for Library renovation. The establishment of the Kaneb Center, campus discussion of the Boyer Commission report, the First Year Composition program, and other initiatives are signs of intensified examination of pedagogical practices at Notre Dame. We believe that inquiry- based education and the introduction of the critical use of information sources into students development of theses and supporting arguments holds promise of greater integration between course work and library support, and for collaboration between teaching and library faculty. We note, even now, an increase in group assignments which also involve intensive use of data. A library building which encourages these developments by appropriately equipped and designed training labs and study spaces will contribute much to the teaching mission of the University. Equally important is the Library s role in supporting scholarship and research in the University. The necessity for providing space for growing print and microform collections, even as electronic resources multiply, is an obvious consequence of this role, but creating suitable environments for graduate student and faculty study and research is too. We will try to accommodate disciplinary differences in these matters, and know that for some, a collection of texts in close proximity to small study areas is required; for others, a collection of scores next to listening equipment; for others, browsing opportunities, and so on. Provision of uncomplicated and swift access to needed resources regardless of location and assistance in their use is part of the Libraries vision statement, and should govern the layout of a renovated library. Gaining access to books, serials, microforms, etc. and getting answers to questions will still be important, but we also know that the future will bring new ways of using the Libraries, e.g., self-charging of items. Developing clear, convenient, well-labeled pathways that reflect typical user behavior, and locating service points accordingly will contribute to successful visits to the Library. Knowledgeable, efficient staff operations, both at the service points and behind the scenes make achievement of the Libraries goals possible, and so cannot be neglected in designing space. Here, too, technology is effecting continuous change, and so flexibility in the use of space becomes a watchword. Interrelationships among units, more efficient practices, and the impact of ergonomic requirements on highly automated work are all factors. Optimum location of staff and library faculty will consider the staffing demands of service points and access to expertise. The connection between the programs the Libraries intend to pursue and the planning of space that will further them and promote their success should be obvious. What is described above is the framework which has emerged from the Program Planning Committee s investigations, review of focus group results, and discussions. Thoughtful examination of these and other library objectives as contained in the mission and vision statement should assist in the determination of priorities for use of space and further definition of those uses. Contact the Space Planning Committee at: renovate.1@nd.edu Version: 1/20/99, ©1999