The Design And Construction Of Information Commons In University Libraries

With people's increasing demands for information and their increasing use of it, the library begins to attach greater and greater importance to its information services. In order to secure a firm position in the modern society where knowledge is highly prized, the library makes it a must to reconsider its future plan and in novate its service patterns. New technologies and fresh needs push the library continuously seek an up-to-date self-improvement. Among its many services, Information Commons (IC) has undoubtedly become one of the major goals in the service innovation of the library.Since the concept of IC was introduced more than a decade ago, IC has gained a fast development. Many university libraries have established IC with their own characteristics, and in consequence their service qualities have also been improved. The thesis writer studies the construction patterns of IC, in hope of providing the university libraries in China with theoretical consultants and models. Therefore, the libraries can learn from each other, seek common developments and finally build IC. The construction of IC should respect the practical situation of the Chinese universities, meet people's needs and improve services of the library as well.Part one of the thesis elaborates on the definitions, nature, characteristics and significance of the IC. Although different institutions have produced different definitions, the nature and characteristics remain almost the same.Part Two introduces the establishments and developments of IC in the libraries of universities both home and abroad. A detailed analysis of the IC construction in the library of Calgary University, U.S.A. is provided by means of charts and graphs. Seeking help from the on-line consultation, the IC construction in the library of Shanghai Normal University is vividly presented through the pictures and words.Part Three puts forward ideas on the design and operation of IC in university libraries, which includes construction requirements, space designs and operation systems, etc.Drawing lessons from the IC construction experiences of the Chinese and foreign university libraries and considering the practical situations, in Part Four the thesis writer, taking the library of Dalian University of Foreign Languages as an example, has proposed a plan of IC construction.In conclusion, the writer believes the libraries of Chinese universities are fully capable of constructing IC based on university realities. With the renovation and extension of the university libraries in China, IC construction, as a primary part in library service innovation, is bound to have a bright future.