Information Commons Services for Learners and Researchers: Evolution in Patron Needs, Digital Resources and Scholarly Publishing

Author: Russell Bailey,  University of North Carolina Charlotte, USA

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Abstract

Since approximately 1990, the Information Commons has emerged as an effective model of integrated library public services. The Information Commons combines traditional, paper-print, high-touch library services and resources with computer technologies and digital resources in a relatively seamless service environment. Extensive computer resources for Web research, free Web resources and proprietary electronic databases complement the full spectrum of productivity software and specialty scanning, digitization and multimedia resources. Numerous examples from North America and elsewhere and links to others will be provided.

The Information Commons model considers change and evolution in patron needs vis-à-vis 1. staff training and attitude, 2. quantity, quality and type of information resources, 3. unmediated access and personal control in patron learning and research (especially in search technologies), and 4. architectural layout and aesthetic nature of the library facilities.

The learner and researcher share many needs, but the complexity of high-level research often warrants special consideration. High-level research needs and knowledge creation are the focus of the budding Research Commons at a few institutions. The Open Access (OA) movement pays special attention to evolving research and scholarly publishing needs.

About the author

Dr. D. Russell Bailey, Associate University Librarian for Information Commons and Associate Professor, University of North Carolina Charlotte, North CArolina, USA

*Ph.D. in German Studies and Library Science: The Austrian Problem of Language and Peter Handke *Harvard University Management Development Program *M.A.L.I.S. in Library and Information Science *M.Ed. in Pedagogy *B.A. in German & French. *Information Commons Handbook - co-author, forthcoming in 2006 *Information Commons Case Studies - co-author, forthcoming in 2007 *American Library Association Panels & Workshops at library.uncc.edu/infocommons – 2002-2005 *”Information Commons Redux”, Journal of Academic Librarianship, September, 2002 *Multicultural Resources on the Internet – contributing author, 1999 *“Electronic Government Information and Small Academic Libraries,” Florida Libraries, 1996 *“U.S. Influences on Korean Education: Understructure, Imprint and Overlay,” Fulbright Occasional Papers, 1996 *Fulbright-Hayes Grant-supported research in Germany, Austria, Japan and Korea; grant-supported work in France, England and Québec-Canada – 1970-1994 Professional Affiliations - *American Library Association- -Association of College & Research Libraries -Library & Information Technology Association -Library Administration & Management Association -International Relations Roundtable *American Association of University Professors *Phi Beta Delta Society for International Scholars *Comparative & International Education Society *ASIANetwork (Arts & Science Institutions Asia Network) *Association of Asian Studies