More User-Centered Features Added

Since the East wing of the D. H .Hill Library at NCSU was renovated in 2007 additional changes have been made to improve services for users.

A set of applications, called MobLIB, for mobile devices was released in November 2007.

"MobiLIB currently consists of seven services. ?Catalog Search? offers a simplified search interface for the library catalog that allows users to limit their searches to available items. ?Computers? shows the location and count of available computers in the D. H. Hill Library, while ?Library Hours? lists operating hours for all NCSU libraries and core services. Users can search the ?Campus Directory? to find contact information for NCSU staff and students, and ?Contact Us? allows them to access various library departments and services. ?Links? contains a selection of links to external content providers, such as mobile search engines, and ?Wolfline Status? links to a text-only version of the Wolfline map that shows the current position of all Wolfline buses. New services are planned for the future." (http://news.lib.ncsu.edu/page/17/, Nov 08, 2007 posting)

An update to MobiLIB provides improved mobile access to library information. Forgot the call number or wrote it down wrong? Need to see a map of the library? No problem if you have a Web enabled mobile device. The application detects the device being used and serves up the information in an appropriate format.

Another library application was released, this one to help users find study groups. A special kiosk was setup for the application but it is also available via the Library's electronic bulletin board and via the Web. A study group leader can post the group name and location. Group members no longer have to wonder the library to find their group. All required texts for classes at NCSU are available via a reserves program. An Ice Cream shop was opened next door in the west wing of the library. Students needing a break can pop over to the Creamery and have a cone in the ConeZone. Since the Learning Commons upgrade, the traffic at the library has increased considerably. Starting in Spring 2009 the Friends of the Library has hosted a study break serving coffee and snacks to students still at the library at 1am during finals week.

How is the East Wing User-Centered?

User-centered design is about the user. How can the user best be served? In the case of the NCSU D. H. Hill Library newly remodeled east wing modern technology has a major impact on the user-centered design. Classes have on-line components, the OPAC is online, much of the library's collection is going digital, students interact with each other and off-campus friends and family via the Internet.

The new Learning Commons provides both the space (although NCSU still cannot seat the 20% of students the rules say it should seat) and the technology for students to learn, collaborate, and maintain those important connections. More than 100 computers, PCs and Macs, were added to the library including workstations specifically for GIS, and math/statistical needs. Additionally, there are computers and peripherals designated for multimedia projects. The Digital Media Lab is located near by to provide assistance.

The grouping of workstations is another important aspect of user-centered design. The Learning Commons has collaborative spaces set up for users working on group projects. There are also single user spaces for users that need to work alone in a quiet(ish) space. Both types of spaces allow users to spread out a little, using both print and online tools. White boards, projectors, and other tools are also available to users.

The library also has laptops available for check out. Wireless access points give user's fast, easy access to all the Internet has to offer. The study areas have plenty of power outlets for laptops and recharging personal devices like cell phones and iPods. Conveniently located around the Learning Commons are the ready reference materials. And there are plenty of library aids to help. The private meeting areas are often used for impromptu user training.