Cabot Library’s renovation transforms a general science library into a cross-disciplinary hub for 21st century teaching and learning. The new contemporary environment bridges modern scholarship with the library’s traditional collections and fosters collaboration, research, and small group learning through state-of-the-art technology and digital resources.
A Digital Directory on each floor presents up-to-date campus info and event happenings. At the Discovery Bar, one-on-one discussions, small group gatherings and demonstrations of new library technology can occur. The bar also has modular seating that is reconfigurable which provides for a variety of set-up arrangements depending on the event. For larger groups, a motorized projection system is used.
Numerous study areas not only provide a prime place to meet classmates to work on projects, but they also provide easy access to collaboration tools such as writable glass surfaces and mobile displays. Displays at the gathering locations can be configured to automatically respond to local input such as laptops, tablets, or smartphones. Flexible seating and mobile flat panel displays also add the ability for faculty and students to form spur-of-the-moment collaboration groups with ease.
The Library also features two cutting-edge spaces where students and faculty can create and record presentations, interviews, and class assignments. These media studios feature a “one button system” that places emphasis on simplicity for both users and support staff, even when users have no prior video experience. The production workflow is condensed to plugging in a USB drive and pressing one button. The system also contains all audio, video, lighting, computing, and control components.
