Affiliation:
1. University of Maryland, USA
Abstract
The notion of the learning commons has become the benchmark for service delivery in academic libraries. Current best practices inform the broadening of library services by building relationships with campus academic support units to create a synergistic combination that redefines the research experience of our students by meeting them where they are. This concept expands the boundaries of the traditional library and calls for a reconfiguration of spaces, resources and services focused on supporting the learning needs of the community. The commons becomes a catalyst for new learning and interaction opportunities for students. This chapter will detail the process the University of Maryland underwent to establish this culture of inclusion and innovation in the Terrapin Learning Commons (TLC) which began as an empty new floor of the McKeldin Library (the undergraduate library) in 2010 and has since expanded to become a hub of activity surrounding learning spaces, programming, and a host of cutting edge technological services and resources.