Villanova Opens New Learning Commons to Enhance Learning, Student-Support Services
Villanova has transformed the second floor of its Falvey Memorial Library into a state-of-the-art learning and student support center. The Learning Commons at Falvey features a host of new technologies and areas dedicated to support research, individual and group study, tutoring and consultation, and presentation development. The newly redesigned space will be dedicated Friday.
Villanova began construction on the Learning Commons last August. The goal of the renovation project, said library director Joe Lucia, was to bring key academic services—including research, writing, math, and learning support--together under one roof and create an environment that would better facilitate individual and collaborative learning.
"Beyond convenience and amenities, the goal of this project was to enhance the learning environment," said Lucia. "We wanted to create a more seamless network of support for our students by consolidating the learning space and establishing a central location for support resources."
Philadelphia-based BLT Architects designed Villanova's new Learning Commons. The layout of the physical space follows a shared "street" concept to enable library users to easily access academic support resources. The space also features high ceilings, improved lighting, multi-purpose rooms with flexible furniture, an open lounge area for informal group study, and smaller spaces for individual study. The Commons' large conference rooms have been outfitted with display systems and digital whiteboards for presentations, meetings, and informal classes.
Falvey Memorial Library houses print, electronic, and audiovisual resources as well as specialized collections that reflect Villanova's Augustinian roots. The Library also sponsors cultural events throughout the year for students, faculty, and members of the community.
For more information on Villanova's new Learning Commons, visit Falvey Memorial Library's Web site.
About the Author
Kanoe Namahoe is online editor for 1105 Media's Education Group. She can be reached at [email protected].