One of the challenges that most Reference Departments in any type of library are facing is how to best use the space.

  • Do we continue to build our Reference Collection and add shelving if necessary?
  • Do we keep it just the size it is and weed the collection to offset new purchases?
  • Do we shrink the collection to allow more room for seating and/or computers?

Part of this has to do with the mission of the department and what emphasis you place on electronic resources. The Irwin Library at Butler University has spent the past two summers doing some serious weeding of the Reference Collection, ending up with two fewer ranges of shelving and the replacement of one unit with a lower unit of shelving (4 shelves per section instead of 6). There are two main rows of shelving in our department, angled toward the center. Now both sides have a lower unit that has wood on the end instead of metal.

So we’ve cleared more space (allowing us to add 10-12 more computers to our lab area) and opened the lines of visibility more, making the space seem larger, warmer, and more welcoming. We’re also replacing our old, dark computer tables with some that are more interesting, lighter, and conducive to group work. Read more about these tables on our library blog: DawgBlog.

Every library needs to figure out for themselves what is best for their clientele, given the money, space, and other resources that are available. For us, we’ve put more of our money into electronic resources and databases and more of our space into workstations and soft seating because that’s how we feel we can serve our students the best. We’re excited about our changes and look forward to seeing the students’ reactions as well.