- What is the Library West Information Commons? The Information Commons at Library West
is the focal point of the library’s third floor. While the mission of the Libraries remains to be the catalyst for research and discovery, the increasingly digital environment required that planners examine, and possibly select, additional resources to provide in the new space. After years of research and consultation with campus and off-campus resources, the Libraries conceptualized and planned this area to deliver new services to patrons by integrating technology and research services.
- Why does the third floor include areas with differing equipment and software? Because of the variations in user needs for developing and completing projects, the Libraries determined that having separate functional areas was required. The bulk of the Information Commons is made up of workstations with common productivity software and Internet access, a configuration seen throughout the campus libraries; this fulfills most user requirements.
However, coursework increasingly includes the development of projects using digital media. Consulting with the Office of Academic Technology and campus labs, with the Digital Worlds Institute, and with the University Disability Office, the Libraries selected specialized software applications and peripherals that could be used to meet these new demands. The specialized workstations, which include web development and imaging software along with the basic library computer configuration, are located on the east end of the third floor.
- Do I need to be an expert to use the Information Commons? How can the staff assist me with the projects I am working on? Users do not need to be experts at using the workstations provided, but basic computer skills are assumed. We do have reference staff who can assist with research needs, as well as IT staff who are able to provide some assistance with the technologies available. Manuals are also provided either electronically or in print.
- How can I reserve a media area? For how long? Media areas include the ADA/Media Production studios, group presentation area and the 2nd floor video-conferencing room. You can reserve the room by first reading the reservation policies available and then filling out the reservation form. Checkout times are for 2 hour blocks.
- What kind of storage devices can I use in the Information Commons? Why does my data/files get cleared out after I logoff? You can use a floppy disk (general areas); CD-RW (all areas) or DVD+-R/RW (digital areas) disks; and/or USB portable storage devices (all areas) such as a flash/jump drive or a zip drive to save your materials. Note that due to the security in place, all data and files created in your session will be cleared once you log off of the computer. Unfortunately, we do not have a recovery program in place.
- May I print from the InfoCommons? The majority of the computers on the third floor of Library West have printing capability. The Copying and Printing in the UF Libraries page provides information about the process. However, note that the computers designated in the Digital Media areas do not currently print; you will need to use a storage device to save your documents and other files created while using these areas.
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