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University
Library Committee Minutes
September 15, 1998
The University Library Committee Meeting began at 3:30 p.m. on September 15th. Agenda items and discussions are listed below. Minutes taken by June Koelker.
- Report by the University Librarian
Bob Seal described major events connected with the library since last year’s meeting of the committee.
- The TTI Company gave TCU funding for a new 45 workstation computer lab which is available for general student use in the library. The remodeling of space and purchase of new equipment occurred over the summer. It is already immensely popular with students.
- The Library completed a summer project which rearranged all of the bound journals into call number order. This arrangement brought bound journals together by subject area rather than by title. (and also provided a means for the complete run of a journal’s back issues to be located sequentially in one place and not divided by alphabetical title changes which occurred through the years)
- The Library’s new Electronic Journal Center started this semester. The library placed four microcomputers and a laser printer in the main reading room. The EJC will be dedicated to support of electronic journals.
- Over the summer, the library upgraded its HVAC infrastructure with the addition of new chillers and coolers. The library is in the final stages of installation of a desiccant system which is designed to stabilize incoming air by maintaining a set humidity level and to remove various microbial elements from the outside air before the air enters the building.
- The Library hosted its Second Annual Open House. Close to 200 students attended the event. The library organizes this event to encourage students to use the library. This year’s theme, taken from the X-files, featured a large alien which added to the festivities.
- The Library started a multi-phased program designed to broaden ambiance and attractiveness to students. We want to provide a place which is welcoming and inviting to TCU students. We are working with Dr. Mills’ office to install a coffee bar in the lobby; we are acquiring new, comfy chairs for use throughout the library; we are planning short one-time events involving art, theater, and lectures, etc. that will provide visibility and opportunity to visit the library; we are relaxing the food and drink policy to allow beverages with lids and candy; we are installing signs to designate quiet study areas in contrast to visiting/conversation areas of the library; and we are exploring the potential for a sound system in the main reading room which might play classical music at a soft level.
- Bob is developing an extensive needs assessment document to describe the space problems of the Library. The library is hopeful that the University will give serious consideration in the near future to the need for a library addition. Library space needs include stack space, group study rooms, graduate carrels, faculty studies, more seating, etc. etc.
- Jim Wright will move out of his Federal office building at the end of September. Along with his secretary, he will move into a Library office at that time. He is brining about 1000 books and hundreds of archival boxes.
- Strategic Planning
Bob Seal reviewed the recent strategic planning activity of the library. He asked if the university library committee would be willing to use an October meeting to conduct a focus group by library staff. Those attending agreed. Cheryl Sassman of the Library staff and Ron Flowers will discuss the timing.
- Faculty Research Rooms
The number of faculty requesting research rooms can be accommodated this year by having some faculty assigned to the larger rooms share these rooms with others. The committee approved this arrangement.
- The meeting ended with a brief tour by Bob Seal of the new TTI lab, the Electronic Journal Center, and the bound journal stacks. Bob mentioned that upcoming new Intensive English Computer Lab which will be housed in the former graduate carrel area.
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