Reference services in the commons environment

Abstract

Purpose

This paper describes the services offered in an information commons that primarily serves undergraduate students at a large research university. This paper provides background information on the implementation of a learning or information commons and describes the effect of the commons environment on reference services and environment and highlights the importance of a strong relationship between libraries and information technology providers in developing successful public services in an information commons.

Design/methodology/approach

This article describes the transformation of an Undergraduate Library into the Information Commons and describes the implications for library services in a public services partnership.

Findings

The information commons environment is one part of a library system that is evolving in response to and in anticipation of user needs.

Practical implications

This paper documents a successful partnership in creating an information commons that primarily serves undergraduate students at a large research university.

Originality/value

The partnering approach in developing an information commons can result in a cohesive suite of services that support students. The implications for reference services provide insight for other libraries that are planning information or learning commons.

Citation

Dallis, D. and Walters, C. (2006), "Reference services in the commons environment", Reference Services Review, Vol. 34 No. 2, pp. 248-260. https://doi.org/10.1108/00907320610669489