LITS R&ID Team members recently presented “Spaces That Inspire: Redesigning Libraries (and other spaces) For Modern Learning and Technology,” as part of NERCOMP’s Learn & Network webinar series. Kristin Strohmeyer, senior research and community engagement librarian, Forrest Warner, instructional designer, digital innovation and student manager, and Alex Wohnsen, senior research librarian for academic initiatives and experiential learning, focused on how Burke Library’s summer 2023 redesign addressed evolving student needs, incorporated cutting-edge teaching and technology spaces while highlighting collections.
The presentation grew from their 2024 NERCOMP (NorthEast Regional Computing Program) conference presentation about renovations to Burke Library that allow the building to better meet today’s research and technology needs.
The webinar included many aspects of the redesign process. From identifying the evolving needs of students using the library, to incorporating spaces for teaching, technology, and collections into the floor plan, to planning for an extended closure and dealing with unexpected challenges, it offered “practical insights for those considering or planning renovations, covering project management, communication strategies, and lessons learned along the way.”
