Gearing up: technologies for adventures in library learning

Safari and travel outfitters know that, while appropriate and high quality gear is essential, it is merely a tool to facilitate the primary goal – a great adventure. Similarly, in outfitting the Lied Library Collaborative Learning Center (CLC), we chose appropriate and high quality technologies, furniture, and equipment to facilitate the primary goal of enhancing learning. In particular we wanted to build in opportunities for increased flexibility, interactivity and collaboration. This article details the rationale and processes that shaped the development of the CLC and shares our initial reactions to the resulting environment.