Presentation Type
Presentation (20 minutes)
Presentation Theme
Transform physical library spaces and places
Start Date
11-8-2015 3:45 PM
End Date
11-8-2015 4:45 PM
Description
How do I print my transcripts? Where do I get a FAFSFA form? How do I drop a class? I need help with math, who can tutor me? Can I get a student ID? Librarians get all kinds of questions that don’t necessarily have anything to do with traditional “library services,” like database and collection inquiries. This summer, Gateway Community and Technical College is embarking on an Information Commons like none other. It’s tearing down barriers to ensure seamless transactions for students, more engagement with staff and faculty and encouraging teamwork to provide superior customer service. Individual departments including the library, student services, advising, and financial aid will join forces to create one giant, information-producing service model. Staff from these departments will work side-by-side to help meet the varying needs of our students to provide Gateway Personalized Service! -- Think concierge of the Information Commons.
Staff working in the Information Commons will be cross-trained to meet the most basic and common needs of students across departmental divides. Specialists will be on hand for those needing extra attention. A truly unique Information Commons such as this is complemented by design elements encouraging spontaneous, active learning opportunities. Thanks in large part to the U.S. Department of Education First in the World Grant and partnership with Steelcase, Inc., Gateway is literally tearing down walls and incorporating furniture and collaborative design principles into an Information Commons area at each of our three campuses. This will undoubtedly eliminate the feeling of getting “the run-around.” Information Commons will become synonymous with customer service and a one-stop shop. No longer will we ask them to remember each department’s name and function. Convoluted college jargon will be eliminated from our vocabulary when dealing with students, helping make this a key place for student success, retention and collaboration.
We will share our concept, plans, and progress of this one-of-a-kind service model. We see challenges as opportunity and look forward to seeing the results of what our exceptional staff and faculty can do once united to serve students.
Included in
GPS – Gateway Personalized Service – Connecting Students with the Resources They Need
How do I print my transcripts? Where do I get a FAFSFA form? How do I drop a class? I need help with math, who can tutor me? Can I get a student ID? Librarians get all kinds of questions that don’t necessarily have anything to do with traditional “library services,” like database and collection inquiries. This summer, Gateway Community and Technical College is embarking on an Information Commons like none other. It’s tearing down barriers to ensure seamless transactions for students, more engagement with staff and faculty and encouraging teamwork to provide superior customer service. Individual departments including the library, student services, advising, and financial aid will join forces to create one giant, information-producing service model. Staff from these departments will work side-by-side to help meet the varying needs of our students to provide Gateway Personalized Service! -- Think concierge of the Information Commons.
Staff working in the Information Commons will be cross-trained to meet the most basic and common needs of students across departmental divides. Specialists will be on hand for those needing extra attention. A truly unique Information Commons such as this is complemented by design elements encouraging spontaneous, active learning opportunities. Thanks in large part to the U.S. Department of Education First in the World Grant and partnership with Steelcase, Inc., Gateway is literally tearing down walls and incorporating furniture and collaborative design principles into an Information Commons area at each of our three campuses. This will undoubtedly eliminate the feeling of getting “the run-around.” Information Commons will become synonymous with customer service and a one-stop shop. No longer will we ask them to remember each department’s name and function. Convoluted college jargon will be eliminated from our vocabulary when dealing with students, helping make this a key place for student success, retention and collaboration.
We will share our concept, plans, and progress of this one-of-a-kind service model. We see challenges as opportunity and look forward to seeing the results of what our exceptional staff and faculty can do once united to serve students.
