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Information Services and University Libraries are implementing a collaborative plan to enhance student and faculty support services beginning this fall.

The plan centers on three initiatives:

1. Co-locating the Information Services’ Lab Helpdesk staff with University Libraries reference desk staff
2. Enhancing student access to multimedia services
3. Continuing to identify new ways for Information Services and University Libraries to cooperatively improve services

Co-location of Information Services Helpdesk staff with University Libraries reference staff

The existing University Libraries reference desk will be expanded into a new walk-up service desk where Information Services and University Libraries will jointly provide services. Information Services manager Wendy Shih and analyst Dolly Lowe say this will allow their walk-up services to be more easily accessible than at the old location.

“I think this is a great idea,” Lowe says. “Instead of being in the back of University Library, we’ll be more visible to the students using the services.”

Information Services will help support computers and printers throughout the building. Information Services and University Libraries will cross-train the staff located at the new walk-up service desk, so that services can be provided during University Libraries 24/5 operating hours.

“The number one thing that we started talking about was better communication, so that everyone knows what everyone else is doing,” says assistant professor Gary Mote. “Any time there is an opportunity to increase collaboration and communication, it’s good for everyone.”

Enhancing student access to multimedia services

Information Services and University Libraries will jointly create, equip and operate the Student Multimedia Services to help students become familiar with a variety of multimedia. The collaboration has resulted in the purchase of the new video cameras that students will be able to check out at the University Library circulation desk. In addition, the equipment in the Student Multimedia Services labs will be kept current.

Continuing to identify new ways for Information Services and University Libraries to cooperatively improve services

Information Services and University Libraries will continue to look for new ways to better support technology and enhance student services in the future. Current items being discussed include:

1. Possible expansion of the Student Multimedia Services lab
2. Providing an emerging technology sandbox that gives students access to the latest technology
3. A new funding model for public computers, multimedia equipment and printers located in University Library
4. The need for a Digital Asset Management system