Director’s Update

The role of academic libraries is changing from a book repository to a campus hub for services to support effective and innovative teaching and student success. As pedagogy changes, the library must change to enable active learning and support learning preferences. The Mardigian Library is eager to embrace the future, and we need your help. Creating a comprehensive master plan for the future of the Mardigian Library will be a major initiative for us in 2012-13. A cross-functional, campus-wide team has started work to develop an exciting new vision for the library and the services provided there. Take a minute to imagine what the future of the library might be…

It is September 2016, and you are visiting the University of Michigan-Dearborn campus. Everyone tells you to visit the Mardigian Library because of its amazing transformation. It is a gathering place for learners rather than a warehouse for books. The library has become a dynamic, integrated and technologically sophisticated environment that inspires individual and collaborative learning.

When you enter the building, you quickly notice how accessible and welcoming it feels. The layout is clear and intuitive, attractive and inviting. Color and art are everywhere. The furnishings are comfortable and flexible in configuration. There are a variety of individual and group spaces for study and research, including both quiet and interactive. Technology is accessible throughout the building.  A faculty collaboratory space supports experimentation with new teaching/learning models and instructional technologies. The café has ample comfortable seating, a diverse menu, and offers both vending and cooking options. Meeting rooms provide technology-rich learning environments. Community partners engage with students and faculty to solve “real-world” problems through integrated learning opportunities at the Integrated Learning and Community Partnership Office (ILCPO). A gallery hosts exhibits, lectures, readings, and other programs to support campus academic goals and the Metropolitan Vision.

The technology and electrical power infrastructure of the building provides outstanding wireless and network connectivity, and electrical outlets are everywhere. Wireless printing is seamless and easy. User-friendly technology is available to support the full range of scholarly activities from idea generation to publication in the appropriate medium and format. Collections are focused on academic and research priorities. Staff members are not forgotten — their workspaces are comfortable and ergonomically designed to support teamwork and efficient workflow.   

When you enter the Collaboration and Creativity Center, you know that this is not “your father’s library.” Nearly every seat is taken, and there is a buzz in the air. In addition to assisting students and faculty with their information needs, the Center provides a “one-stop shop” with support for creating papers, websites, audio-visual productions, and projects using information retrieved from our resources. This is a place to experiment with emerging technology and new ways to creatively communicate ideas — a place for interactive learning and collaboration. The Center is a wonderful new collaboration between the library, information technology, the Writing Center, and other academic support service groups across campus. It is a place where students develop the skills needed for a lifetime of learning, creativity, and leadership— a space where students want to be.

Input for the Library Master Plan will be gathered from the campus community, including our alumni and donors. We hope you will be part of the conversation.