Study Spaces in the IC
The Information Commons provides a unique mix of library and computing services, library materials, learning & teaching resources, and flexible study spaces. It is accessible by all students at any time of day or night. The University wireless network is available throughout the building.
Individual Study
There are a variety of places for students to study on their own in the IC.
- Desks with PCs – those on Levels 1-3 are walk-up only, while all PCs on Level 4 are bookable.
- Study desks where students can read or plug in a laptop.
- Soft-seating areas where students may work informally or relax.
In addition, Collaboratory 1 and the two Classrooms on Level 3 & 4 are available for student use when not booked for teaching.
Silent Study
- Silent study reading rooms with no PCs are located on Level 2 & 3.
- Bookable PCs are available in designated silent areas on Level 5 & 6.
Groups
The IC has been designed so that students can work in groups without disturbing others. On Levels 1 - 4 there are a number of large study desks suitable for group work, and students can also book group study rooms or use the Flexispace.
Portable whiteboards are available that groups can use to plan, make notes, and record ideas. Two of these (‘huddleboards’) can be hung on the wall and photographed using CopyCams (on Level 1 and in the Flexispace). The digital images can then be viewed online, and saved or uploaded elsewhere.
Group study rooms
There are 15 group study rooms on Levels 1 – 6. They accommodate different sizes of group, from small 2-person rooms to large rooms suitable for ten people. All rooms are bookable through the myR&R booking system.
- Four rooms have table and chairs only, and power sockets for students’ own laptops.
- The remainder of the rooms have a large wall-mounted plasma screen, and students’ laptops may be connected to these via a port in the desk and VGA cable.
- In addition, two rooms are fitted out as videoconferencing suites, with PC, plasma screen and webcam/microphone.
Flexispace
The Flexispace on Level 4 consists of furniture and screens on wheels so that the space can be configured to suit a variety of needs. The furniture can be moved around to create a tailored workspace. There are power sockets in the floor for laptops.