Learning commons

A learning commons (also called a scholars' commons or information commons) is a technology-rich, flexible space for collaborative study and information sharing. There is typically a stronger focus on digital technology in a learning commons than there is in a standard library.
They are similar to <a href="/facts/Libraries/hvdQNTtS">libraries</a> and <a href="/facts/Classroom/RIPkR5M6">classrooms</a> that share space for <a href="/facts/Information_technology/glMzunwe">information technology</a>, remote or online education, tutoring, collaboration, <a href="/facts/Content_creation/quYqjEzb">content creation</a>, meetings, socialization, playing games and studying. Learning commons are increasingly popular in academic and <a href="/facts/Research_libraries/BYRpNM9D">research libraries</a>, and some <a href="/facts/Public_libraries/VDjIpJS8">public</a> and <a href="/facts/School_libraries/GcmRNmb7">school libraries</a> have now adopted the model. Architecture, furnishings and physical organization are particularly important to the character of a learning commons, as spaces are often designed to be rearranged by users according to their needs.
Learning commons may also have tools, equipment, <a href="/facts/Makerspace/acq7e6hb">makerspaces</a>, and/or <a href="/facts/Publishing/7g01YeYG">publishing</a> services available for borrowing or use. Along with the so-called "bookstore model," which is focused on customer service, <a href="/facts/Bookless_library/Vvhy8PkP">bookless</a> or <a href="/facts/Digital_libraries/aBCP81In">digital libraries</a>, the learning commons or digital commons is frequently cited as a model for the "library of the future."

Learning commons open-in-new

Learning commons