UVic will have a Learning Commons!

Plans are underway to incorporate a Learning Commons into the renovated McPherson Library (the new William C. Mearns Centre for Learning). Watch the Gateway announcements for ongoing updates on the progress of this new initiative.

What is a Learning Commons?

A Learning Commons is a place where accessible academic support is available for students in one physical location. The Commons provides academic services as a cohesive whole so that students have access to effective, efficient and integrated assistance. The Commons also creates a space for collaborative work between students and between students, their TAs and their faculty.

Why are we starting one here at UVic?

The Learning Commons model has been shown to provide excellent academic support to students as they do their research and complete assignments. UVic makes an ongoing effort to create a successful learning environment for students and the Learning Commons is one more way this can happen.

Why is it centred in the library?

Library research is a key component to academic success and as such the library is a good venue for the Learning Commons. On a more practical level, the building of the new Mearns Centre for Learning has allowed the library the opportunity to expand its mission on the university campus.

Who are the partners?

The partners who are currently involved include the Library’s Reference service, the Writing Centre, Learning Skills, Peer Helpers, Math Tutors and the UVic Computer Help Desk. The Library is discussing partnership with others on campus as well. Initial partners will be limited not by imagination, but by space.

When will the Learning Commons open to students?

The Learning Commons will be located in an area of McPherson Library that is currently occupied. Once the library addition is complete, the occupants of that area will move to the new building and the space will be renovated for the Learning Commons. It is anticipated that Learning Commons partners can begin moving into the Commons in late spring and be ready for full operation in August.

What needs to be done to get everything in place?

Many things need to be accomplished to make the Learning Commons a reality, including creating a programme plan; determining a governance model; identifying key players who will oversee the operation; planning space, furniture, signage; creating a communication plan and web presence; and discussing appropriate assessments.

Who do I contact if I have questions or comments?

Joanne Henning
Associate University Librarian
Reference and Collections Services
Phone: 721-8268
Email: jhenning@uvic.ca

Library Cafe to be named BiblioCafe

UVic Libraries and Housing, Food and Conference Services (HFCS) are pleased to announce the naming of the new cafe, BiblioCafe (with an accent over the e). The winner of the cafe naming contest is Karen Waugh, a UVic staff member in Student Recruitment. Marnie Swanson, University Librarian, and Thomas Bain, HFCS Manager of Retail Outlets & Vending, presented Karen with a $50 HFCS Food Card on October 16th. The Libraries would like to thank everyone who submitted an entry to the contest; we received 784 entries of 2000 creative names!

We look forward to the opening of BiblioCafe this winter (December or January) on the main floor of the McPherson Library.