Strategies and Challenges of Converted Academic Library Spaces to Research Commons: A Case of Selected South African Libraries

Abstract

This paper sought to obtain a deeper understanding of the conversion strategies adopted by the selected South African university libraries and the subsequent challenges experienced thereof. This paper presents a case study for which data were collected through a qualitative-quantitative approach from the three public university libraries in the Gauteng province of South Africa, which had converted their spaces into the research commons (RC). The study sample consisted of the RC manager/librarian from each of the three libraries. The qualitative part of the study employed face-to-face interviews, non-participatory observation and information from websites. The quantitative approach used a structured questionnaire. Data were analysed using an inductive approach. Current library literature on RC does not encompass a holistic approach regarding how the conversion was planned and the challenges thereof. The study findings and recommendations include the formation of a research library consortium (RLC), ongoing user and space assessment to adjust services and resources to suit changing technologies, postgraduate needs and learning styles. Challenges included model misconception by librarians; planning and change management deficiencies; homogeneous staffing models; and budgetary constraints. The study recommends that essential conditions of the cultural commons (CC) be incorporated as the foundational RC conversion process to create a pool of collaboratively endorsed resources to enhance the mission of their parent institutions. The study also recommends that conversion should occur within a planned and collaborative framework to avoid the “tragedy of the commons” implementation and to preserve benefits derived for future sustainability.