As students explore campus this fall, they are sure to notice a few changes inside Miami University Libraries’ flagship King Library. Unless they look very closely, however, they are likely to miss some of the most important upgrades. Every summer, we try to get as much work done on the building and its systems as possible, creating an environment where every scholar can access the resources they need in a safe and secure place. We hope the projects this summer have made a difference.
The biggest but least visible change has been coming for a long time. During the summer months, librarians at MUL and all over the state of Ohio tested and troubleshot to get all of the OhioLINK libraries moved to a brand-new Alma system. As a member of OhioLINK, we took advantage of this software overhaul and transition. It will make accessing resources easier for Miami students — no matter what library the materials are found in.
Another exciting change is the expansion of our Textbooks on Reserve program. Last year we were able to offer books on reserve at the Library for our 50 most popular classes. This year, we were able to double those efforts. We are now offering textbooks for the top 100 classes at Miami.
Building updates are currently ongoing in King Library as well. The air handlers in our library have long needed upgrades. Throughout the summer and into the fall we’ve been investing in them, preparing a comfortable environment with less fluctuations in temperature, in order to be the welcoming space that our students and scholars expect.
We’ve also said goodbye during the summer. After many years, the King Café on our ground floor will not be reopening this fall. While we will miss the accessibility of having a café in the building, we are already planning for the opportunity this new vacancy provides us. What will we use this space for? Stay tuned for more exciting details.
Technology remains on the forefront of our minds at King Library. We have invested heavily in tech for our scholars, purchasing new Chromebooks for students to rent. We have also increased our spend in technology rentals, purchasing more software and more licenses. This will enable more students to have access to programs that will increase their learning opportunities.
In addition, the Makerspace has made some significant upgrades for this semester. Their new Panda DTF Printer will print directly to a film that can be placed directly on almost any fabric, allowing users to create colorful fabric prints, t-shirts, and other projects. The green-screened video studio they have created will enable students to create professional photography and film assignments in the Makerspace.
Whether you’re looking for assistance with research, resources, or creation, King Library has been working hard all summer to get our space prepped. Stop in to visit us today.