Exciting upgrades planned for Kresge, E-LIS

By Dave Groves, news editor

Students, staff and faculty pleased with last year’s improvements to the reference area of Kresge Library can look forward to a whole new set of renovations designed not only to enhance library services, but create a more welcoming, comfortable and productive environment.

Over the coming weeks and months, crews will begin work to create an Information Commons area on the library’s main floor. Boasting more power outlets, an array of new furniture and the latest in technological amenities, the space will enable patrons to complete research work, give presentations, conduct study meetings, access online tutorials and much more.

“The idea is to create a flexible space that allows students to do a wide variety of things,” said Frank Lepkowski, an associate dean with the library.

“Basically what we’ll have is all kinds of technology-rich teaching and learning resources available in one place. Students can draw on expert assistance from reference librarians, technology assistants and Writing Center tutors, all located near the Information Commons.”

To make space for the improvements, the government documents collection will be moved to the first floor. Those materials will remain accessible to library visitors throughout the renovation process.

Lepkowski said he expects the commons area to get a warm welcome from those looking to make the most of 21st century work and study habits.

“The only limit will be the creativity of the students when it comes to how much the space is used and what is used in terms of the technology available.”

OU faculty and staff also stand to benefit from planned improvements.

Located on the fourth floor of the library building, the university’s E-Learning and Instructional Support (E-LIS) department will inherit more space, as well as technology upgrades that expand Scantron processing capabilities, allow instructors to create video segments for online instruction, conduct pedagogical workshops, host video conferences, and take part in technology training and instruction more conveniently than ever.

“As more and more library materials have gone online, it has freed up space and allowed us to expand our capabilities,” said Cathy Cheal, assistant vice president for e-learning and instructional support. “It gives us the ability to help more people.”

Though a great deal of change is on its way, administrators with both the library and E-LIS stress that students, staff and faculty are encouraged to continue taking advantage of current services. All resources and services will remain accessible throughout the renovation process.