Voices: Dan Gjelten

"Re-imagining the way we design, organize and furnish the academic library will lead to an environment that supports teaching and learning in both physical and virtual space. Perhaps just as important, it will facilitate a key community space on campus – a social space that is designed intentionally to enhance learning.

The St. Thomas libraries will continue to blend traditional library services and physical resources with large collections of digital content. We intend to develop a new kind of teaching and learning space – a ‘third place’ where students can meet other students or faculty, where informal teaching can take place, and where group and active learning will occur.

It will enhance what is often thought of as the 'heart' of the university – the library – attracting students and faculty to a 'village square' for contemplation, discovery, conversation, and the exchange of ideas."

– Dan Gjelten, Director of St. Thomas Libraries