Jackson Library: A Multi-Functional Learning Commons

Throughout this project, we studied a lot of precedent work and successful libraries that are already built. I became fascinated with the "learning commons" which is a growing design technique in libraries across the globe. In redesigning the first floor of the Jackson library, I transformed the Reading Room, Reference Room, and everything in between to a multi-functional learning commons. Perhaps the most diverse feature of my design is a space I call the auditorium. It is in the center, joining where the reading and reference room used to meet. During the average use, students can take a seat on one of the 3 foot wide ledges to relax or get some studying done. There are about 60 booth style seat backs that easily pull out of the base to create a comfortable and customizable environment for the user. Whenever the library staff bring guests to give lectures or hold events, this auditorium is easily transformed into an event space. With the seat backs pushed into the base, this 2-sided auditorium easily holds about 100-130 guests. A multi-functional space where students want to spend time at was something I really wanted to bring to the Jackson Library. I hope that my design portrays that.

As you see in the plan above, I relocated all the offices throughout the first floor to where the super lab is currently. By doing this, it opened up the remaining space and allowed all of the librarians and library staff to work in the same space. The circulation desk is approximately where the bathrooms are currently. It fits in between the elevators and staircase allowing direct access for the library staff to their office area which is also where the sorting room is.

This view takes place where the Reference Room currently is. There is a series 20 booths in this space that give people acoustic and visual privacy. Also, each booth has a tv monitor installed so students can hook up their computers and run a group study session.

This view takes place where the Reference Room and Reading Room currently come together. Coming from the College Avenue entrance, it is the room after the vestibule and before the entrance to the room with the EUC connector.