The magical world of an information commons

The Oberlin College Center for Information Technology and Library, as well as representatives from other groups on campus, began working on the development of an Information Commons, which we now call an Academic Commons, in early 2006. Our initial proposal stated "In response to changes in student learning patterns, changes in libraries and educational technologies, and perceived campus needs for improved academic community and cultural space, a group consisting of representatives from the Library, the Center for Information Technology, Audiovisual Services, and the General Faculty Library Committee has been discussing preliminary, broad outlines of a plan to create an information and learning commons on the main level of Mudd Center".[1] Since that time, we have acquired funding and the authorization to proceed. The Academic Commons is expected to be completed by the start of the 2007-08 academic year. It will provide a "magical world" of library and IT resources, including an electronic classroom, student computer help desk, information desk, multi-media facility, many more computer workstations, group study rooms, and a café. This paper will describe the process from start to finish, with a focus on the magical outcomes.