Library space design to promote student engagement: A comparison of graduate and undergraduate students

Abstract

This article explores the library space needs and wants of graduate and undergraduate students at a medium-size state University in Southwest Florida. The researcher conducted a sequential explanatory mixed methods study in which they administered a survey to all currently enrolled graduate and undergraduate students at the university and followed up with semi-structured interviews to better understand students library space needs/wants and how those elements contribute to student success through a lens of academic and social engagement. The researcher identified several library space needs that were common to both graduate and undergraduate students including: comfortable and functional furniture, a variety of study spaces including a mix of individual and group spaces, conducive noise levels, technology, whiteboards, windows to let in natural light, seclusion food and drink options nearby, safety and security, adequate lighting and electrical outlets, and effective wayfinding. An additional need of separate graduate student space was also identified. Findings from this study can help inform the design of library spaces to better support student success through engagement.