Tuesday, August 17, 2010

Following a growing national trend, the University of North Carolina Wilmington’s Randall Library is accommodating the changing learning styles and study habits of students with the Learning Commons, a new center focused on technology-based research and collaborative learning. The grand opening of the new facility will take place at 1 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 19.

Randall is one of several libraries across the nation moving to a new model in which students won’t be reprimanded for making noise, computer-based research is the norm and group projects are replacing all-night study sessions. The Learning Commons space has been upgraded to a more modern design featuring enhanced computers with dual monitors, larger tables for more group interaction, the availability of 300+ power outlets for laptops and more.

UNCW Learning Commons is designed to accommodate the study habits and learning styles of students living in a technology-saturated world. Many of the library upgrades were based on feedback from campus-wide surveys. The university Technology Assistance Center has also been moved to the library to address student questions and provide technology help on-site.

The grand opening will include a ribbon cutting ceremony with UNCW officials and a facility tour. Interviews with library staff and patrons of various ages can be arranged for “then and now” perspectives on library use.

Media contacts:
Joy Davis, Marketing and Communications, 910.632.3903 or davisjc@uncw.edu