RCCC Library Advisory Board

Meeting Summary

2-23-2017

9:00 – 10:30 a.m.

17 in attendance

Introductions

Talked about our “Why”

  • Marketing ourselves –internally and externally
  • Reimagining the 21st century library

Briefly addressed our current space issues

  • Lack of defined space (need instruction classroom, individual study rooms and more group study rooms)
  • Need charging capabilities and more outlets
  • Need comfortable furniture

Trends - ALA Center for the Future of Libraries

Small Groups - divided into three groups and discussed ways to use one of the trends to address “library as place” along with other issues found in libraries and workplaces.

Digital Natives (Never known life before technology):

  • Cell phones are everything to students.
  • 1 on 1 computers in RSS schools
  • Quality use of digital resources (over-reliance on Google and Wikipedia) is an issue for digital natives.
  • They still want a physical book for pleasure reading.
  • Space (convenience and flexibility) - charging stations and charging pads; outlets; food (Café); defined spaces (quiet, group, food, etc.).
  • Idea for Collaboration - Have community college students visit high schools to let them know that they need to pay attention to the media specialists when they’re teaching them information literacy and research skills because they will use it when they get in college.

Fandom (groups with shared interests):

  • Examples of subcultures that grow up around books, TV shows and movies – Game of Thrones, Hunger Games, Star Wars, Dr. Who, Harry Potter, romance novels and Frozen
  • Opportunities for programming – 4-county one-book event with Hunger Games; RPL Dr. Who event for teens; RPL romance novels program for adults
  • Could use it to encourage global learning, travel, reading, and creative writing
  • Idea for collaboration – Coordinate with other libraries of all types, non-profits and businesses for larger attendance at library events and programs, including author visits

Fast Casual (Living Room Experience):

  • Charging stations in high demand
  • Genius Bars (one-stop shop for all needs)
  • Furniture with USBs
  • Tech tables
  • Smart boards
  • Writeable spaces (walls, tabletops, etc.)
  • Rolling white boards
  • Moveable walls, furniture, etc.
  • Comfortable, less institutional, furniture
  • More inviting atmosphere with desired technology will bring students into the library
  • Ideas for collaboration – offer workshops, film and post online; collaborate with other departments across campus

Whole Group Discussion

  • Everyone encouraged visiting the various libraries in our area
  • Better signage across campus so those in Con. Ed. are aware of the library and the resources available
  • Cabarrus County Public Library is having a large event in September and welcomes assistance

Tour of the North Campus Library