The Library of the Future
Abstract
The US Air Force Academy library was occupied in 1958. Subsequently, additions to the collections now occupy space that was designed for another purpose and thereby have reduced the open and study areas. In order to maintain access to the materials, innovative solutions will be required. Digitizing materials, using compact shelving, and possible underground storage of lesser used, but important volumes, may be considered. The library study was undertaken to develop ways to improve the quality of usage by the cadet and faculty clients, and in so doing, to incorporate the learning objectives set by the Dean of Faculty (DF). A phased approach to incorporating goals was also devised to mitigate the disruption of construction and also to allow for concurrent assessment of changes before expensive structural modifications are made. The proposal for the study was two-pronged consisting of an exhaustive literature search on libraries and their purpose as well as multiple site visits to the best, comparable civilian and military institutions. Libraries in the modern age are more than repositories for published works and study cubicles for scholars. They have become learning centers with multi-media capabilities. Therefore, rather than withering, usage in modern libraries has exploded. The backbone of the study was the Academic Working Group, composed of representatives from several departments who individually researched assigned areas bringing their reports to regular organization meetings. Discussions were also held with USAFA Civil Engineering regarding possible architectural changes. It is imperative to update and enhance the library's access to the current collections of print, archival materials, and special collections, and to provide a capacity for materials. Further, it is critical to renovate in such a manner to allow for future expansion to include advances in electronic and digital media and information technology.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 2009
- Accession Number
- ADA508184
Entities
People
- Aaron Byerley
Organizations
- United States Air Force Academy