Mills Learning Commons officially opens today

[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/learning commons edited.jpg” caption=”The Mills Learning Commons. Photo by Susan Bubak.”]The McLay Reading Room, the large study space on the 2nd floor of Mills Library, received a major makeover this past summer.

The renovation of McLay is Phase 1 of the Mills Learning Commons Project.

The room re-opened on Sept. 20 and was filled with students within a few hours–some with their own laptops, others using the library's desktop computers or working at the brand new study tables.

Students claimed the room immediately and are thrilled with the transformation.

“Sweet,” said one of the first five students entering the room on the first day.

“The new library commons room rocks!” said another. In particular, students like the new computer chairs, for which they “voted with their seats” late last spring.

The Mills Learning Commons is a place for students to continue the process of learning that begins in the classroom; they come to learn individually or in groups with access to expert help when and how they need it.

They can get research help from librarians in person or via chat, or get help with a variety of IT problems from peers who work as student consultants in University Technology Services.

Additionally, the Centre for Student Development (CSD) offers writing clinics and academic skills counseling, and there are services and adaptive software for students with disabilities.

Key features of the physical space include more computers (Mills students' top priority in the 2005 Space Survey) and more software, including MS Office.

There are powered laptop zones, including a laptop area with bistro seating, lounge seating for those who like to study in comfort, and wireless access throughout.

Another new addition is the digital signage in the commons and in the lobby of Mills that displays important library and commons partners news.

Still to come are quick-access stations for quick searches, refurbishing of the Reference Area, and completion of group study rooms on the 3rd floor.

The Mills Learning Commons was funded through a generous grant from the University's Refining Directions fund and a generous gift from McMaster alumni Alan and Brenda Wong.

The Commons Project is a collaborative project of the Centre for Leadership in Learning, the Centre for Student Development, McMaster University Library and University Technology Services.

The McMaster community is invited to celebrate the official opening of the Mills Learning Commons on Thursday, Oct. 5 at 3 p.m. on the 2nd floor of Mills Library.