Media Resources and Ed Lab in New Locations

The Weinberg Memorial Library formally opened on June 8, 1992. Since that time, the Library has undergone a number of changes, including the addition of Java City, an enhanced technology group study room, wireless connectivity, and the McDade Room to house the papers of the Congressman. This past summer the first major relocation project took place. The Media Resources Center and the Education Laboratory were moved to the third floor. The technical services departments were relocated to the first floor. And space was gained for the creation of two new group study rooms.

 

The Media Resources Center and the Education Laboratory now share room 303. Over the past ten years, the MRC experienced a variety of new developments in equipment and media formats. As the number of non-book resources increased, the requirements to adequately house and utilize these items increased. The Education Laboratory Collection also continued to grow. Many items in the Ed Lab are comprised of mixed media, i.e. kits, oversized picture books, teaching aids. This presented a problem for shelving, control, and use. The relocation of both of these collections to the third floor provided a more visible location, room for expansion, and an area more conducive to the use of these materials.

 

In order to better integrate acquisitions, cataloging, and serials operations, the technical services departments were combined in the area previously occupied by the Media Resources Center. Procedures and responsibilities in these departments changed radically as electronic access to bibliographic information and resources proliferated. These shared resources necessitated an increased interaction in technical services. Housing the departments in one area was a logical move that should be advantageous for both the staff and those members of the University Community who work with the staff.

 

During the 2005/2006 academic year, the Library conducted a LibQual +™ survey to determine users' satisfaction with library building and services. Participants in the survey expressed a need for more group study rooms. In response to this request, two new group study rooms were created on the second floor in the office area vacated by the serials department.

 

It is hoped that these changes will better serve both Library patrons and staff. The Library will continue to address the growing needs and advancements in providing information, resources, and service to the University community.