Assessment of the Learning Commons takeoff at the University of Botswana Library

Abstract

This article describes and assesses the processes involved in the University of Botswana Library’s decision to launch the Learning Commons(LC) project. These processes include the setting up of an exploratory committee on the LC, informational trips, the delineation of the location for the project, formulation of criteria for appointment of a manager, and developing management marketing and building staff capacity. The LC project is in line with the Library’s goal to advance its services to improve the student experience and is in accord with the University’s wider strategy for excellence. Hitherto unknown in most African university libraries, the Learning Commons is part of the bid of the University of Botswana to live up to its vision “to be a leading centre of academic excellence in Africa and the world”. Despite some initial apprehensiveness and reluctance of staff, and backed by the determination and commitment of the University’s Executive Management to ensure the success of the project, the identification of operational partners and their expression of willingness to cooperate and participate, marks a landmark toward the success of the project.

Innovation, no.43, December 2011