Ecosciences precinct library – collaboration of spaces & people

Abstract

Introduction
The Ecosciences Precinct (ESP) in Dutton Park, Brisbane opened in late 2010 providing a facility for researchers from Queensland Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation, Queensland Department of Environment and Resource Management and CSIRO. This landmark building has won numerous awards for its innovative and sustainable design. The building incorporates ‘green’ energy and recycling initiatives, and is designed to encourage interaction and collaboration amongst occupants.

A purpose built Library is at the physical and intellectual heart of the building and provides clients with an open, modern, collaborative space.

This paper describes the planning process, physical occupation (involving relocating collections from more than eight different locations), the ongoing service operation, client satisfaction levels and future initiatives.

Methods
Library clients at the facility work in diverse areas including animal science, climate change and adaptation, agricultural sustainability, soil science, and weed management.

In the spirit of collaboration that the centre is designed to encourage, library staff from the three agencies work together to provide services to over 1000 ESP staff and researchers. For example, training sessions have been offered to staff from all three agencies for common database platforms.

This paper describes some challenges, including separate networks and catalogues, and how services have been adapted to overcome these barriers.

The Library has successfully positioned itself as a community hub for the facility, with clients using it for journal clubs, meetings, and as a space for quiet research.

Outcomes
A survey has been carried out to determine client satisfaction with the new Library. Results are discussed and future plans based on the findings are outlined.

A real benefit for library staff has been the cross-fertilisation and the resultant sharing of information, ideas, skills and broadening of knowledge.

Conclusions
Plans for future integration and collaboration in the ESP library service include the creation of a union library catalogue and possible shared access to electronic resources. A shared site intranet would also be a welcome development, enabling the Library to project a more unified presence to clients