2018 LibTech Conference

In October 2017, the CALD (Council of Academic Library Directors) reviewed a proposal for a cooperative approach to managing print collections. One objective in the proposal is to “[a]llow participating libraries to reclaim space for local needs and other purposes that are beneficial for their community members.” As more libraries evaluate their space needs versus maintaining large collections of print materials that are not circulating, this presentation will provide an overview of one academic library’s experience in reclaiming and repurposing space for much-needed teaching as well as learning spaces. This presentation will provide background on our collection analysis project, our original goals, our vision, and how a fortuitous need elsewhere on campus led to the development and completion of an entire new look on the second floor of the DeWitt Wallace Library, Macalester College in less than 8 months. Participants in this session will have an opportunity to imagine a space in their own libraries and identify how they might create “neighborhoods” for development; Neighborhoods being spaces such as those to reflect, tinker, meet, collaborate, learn, and showcase.