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In September 2006, after the summer reprieve, Suffolk University faculty, students and alumni will begin to use their new three level library, housing 120,000 print volumes in a transparent wireless environment. Its floor space is not separated by walls, but was built with “open space barriers” where the various library uses can be conducted. This multi-million dollar undergraduate/graduate library provides students with a wireless Information Common; its design incorporates the latest library technological functionality as well as physical space intended to accentuate the book.
The library is not only an improvement in the visual sense, but all design decisions were made to encompass the other senses as well. The Suffolk University library project had one over arching theme: make this a signature, visual library, and, at the same time, create a comfortable environment to use books in a traditional way.
We will discuss the level and detail of decision making that was needed in the design, construction and staff preparation to achieve an “old” library experience for the digital generation. The focus of the paper is to ascertain if attention to create an environment similar in spirit to the “Great Reading Rooms” of the 18th century yet includes the latest in computer technology correlates into increased awareness and use of the book. By this we mean both vertical and horizontal environment, the accessibility environment, but more importantly to understand the flux the spatial environment undertakes when the library is utilized by the various university stakeholders.
This is an ongoing research project that will benchmark not only quality of the library experience but just as important help build upon the concept that keeping with the old can make the future more dynamic particularly with reference the “Book”.

Stream: Libraries

Paper: A paper has not yet been submitted.

Over 20 years in international business operations management; 10 years in academic studies. Work experience includes startup manufacturing operations, international consulting for High Technology companies. Most recent research is in Ireland's third level system pertaining to service quality perceptions as institutes of technology apply for university status.

To be submitted later