Information commons in a library is an idea being considered by most academic libraries, especially if they have plans to make changes to their allocation of space.  Michael Stephens at ALA TechSource writes about his tour of Loyola University’s new information commons, and it sounds like they have a really well-thought out design.

I especially like that they developed core principles (the ultimate purpose of the space) and recognized the need to address a range of users and uses of the commons.

Almost completely off-topic:  I spent a wonderful hour at Loyola in 1990 or so when I drove a friend there so that she could prepare for starting classes.  I was very stressed out for a variety of reasons, and sitting on the beach, watching the waves crash on the shore while I soaked up some sun made all the difference.  I am glad that the commons allows for people to look up from their work and see the lake… it will certainly help to relax a few people when they most need it.

Introducing the Michaels is a column by Michael Casey and Michael Stephens in the current issue of Library Journal. Read it. Print it out. Leave copies in your break area for co-workers to read.

Michael and Michael’s “tenets of the transparent library” are are golden nuggets of wisdom, and their application can greatly improve library environments throughout the world. Most of all, their application within the workplace can transform the internal environment of our own libraries.

Don’t think that this is a top-down project, however. Recognize that the best way to change your environment is to change what you are doing, and encourage the same changes for those around you. Network. Discuss. Share what you do, so that others better understand not only your role in the greater organization, but their own as well.

To those who think in terms of “knowledge is power” and respond by portioning out information in a controlled manner, these tenets are revolutionary (and perhaps even subordinate) ideas. Recognize that greater openness is the stronger weapon, and that the most effective way to wield it is to apply it in your own work.

The opportunity is here for libraries to become the standard-bearers of the information age, or the greatest irony.