Anatomy of a renovation

The seeds of innovation are changing how libraries use their space and plan for future remodels, renovations or expansions, especially post-COVID. Examples of this range from converting space from materials storage to user space needs along with technology enhancements. Technology driven initiatives that impact space usually start as small ideas or seeds of innovative initiatives, such as makerspaces, but are growing into digital media centers, video and imaging rooms, gaming labs and augmented reality spaces. This presentation shares a case study approach to a master space planning project but goes beyond the typical consultant led project into developing a boarder perspective on the factors related to addressing innovative changes and initiatives for both present needs and future developments. As part of renovation planning, an assembled team, representing a wide range of interests conducted site visits to selected academic libraries to visualize and discuss trends and initiatives impacting space planning. This information was shared with stakeholders in a focus group format to vet out potential seeds of expectation on how the use of library space can contribute to the success of individuals, groups and the larger institution. The drivers for creating goals in the planning effort went beyond the library walls to include community, digital scholarship and convening spaces. Research was conducted regarding the pedagogy that libraries can offer, in order to create environments that promote and support knowledge creation. The library should be considered the learning hub on campus and be integrated into each level of the educational mission to ensure student success and faculty research support. This paper/presentation breaks down how small seeds of ideas, new concepts or futuristic thinking can be incorporated into space design and renovation efforts. This anatomy of a renovation will be very visual and active in its delivery.