Exploring the Library Learning Commons
By Loureyna Pablo
Breathtaking.
The Library Learning Commons (LLC) boasts three stories and sleek upgrades to Chaffey’s Rancho Cucamonga campus. More technology and inviting study spaces provide Panthers with an enhanced learning experience.
Stepping into it feels like entering a new campus. Attempting to navigate the 76,000 square-foot space can be overwhelming. Knowing the main features of each floor can help even graduating Panthers maximize their LLC experience.
Outside
The design of the building intends to connect Panthers to nature. Natural-inspired materials and big glass windows make the space feel open -- it already rivals the dim space of the former library.
Upon entry
Northeast of the Administration (AD) building is the first-floor entrance. Natural lighting illuminates the open lobby, the social stairway sitting at its center. The stairs are outfitted with outlets and made to be informal seating. The look of it essentially summarizes the entire space — bright, expansive, practical.
The circulation desk can be found on the left to check out the books from upstairs. A student ID is required (to get/replace a student ID, click the link here: https://chaffey.libanswers.com/faq/52575). They also have a free book swap cart for anyone who wants to participate, as well as goodies like free bookmarks. The first floor also has the LLC’s writing center and reference desk.
Second floor
The second floor can be accessed through the stairs, the elevator or the second-floor entrance found steps away from the former library. It features a variety of study seating, technology, classrooms and Chaffey’s oversized book collection.
Compared to the old library, this new space is more lively. Some couches and chairs are configured for discussions. A Juneteenth mural by Samuel Dunson adds depth that the original library lacked. The newest classrooms are also nestled within, housing multiple departments.
Technology is accessible to Panthers through the original system of checking out Chromebooks and hotspots (student ID required). There are also stationary computers available for use. The computers’ password is not displayed, which can be frustrating. However, for all in-house computers, the password will always be "student". Some students have also found the printer tricky to navigate, but assistance is always available from the help desk for any technology issues.
Third floor
For those seeking the library portion of the LLC: fiction, zines and the general collection can be found on the third floor.
One of the biggest changes from library to LLC is the variety of study room sizes on the third floor. The smallest room hosts a maximum of four, and the largest can seat up to 12. Regardless of the size, all are fitted with an LCD display screen, power outlets and whiteboards (markers and erasers at the circulation desk).
Parents now have access to a nursing room, which can help balance parental duties with studying.
Available on every floor are restrooms, with the women's including free menstrual products. There are individual restrooms that are wheelchair-accessible and gender-neutral. Unfortunately, the main restrooms do not offer the same accessibility. One of the most appreciated features of the original library’s bathroom was the accessible door opener button, which the LLC bathrooms lack.
Third floor – outside
In a podcast interview with The Breeze prior to the LLC’s opening, librarian Carol Hutte predicted the balcony would be the star of this new building. It draws crowds for sunset, though is still otherwise populated regardless of weather. It is best to come about 10 minutes before sundown to avoid heat from direct sun.
More in store
There are a few parts of the LLC that are not available right now. Whether it be technical difficulties or future plans, there is still more to come in this space.
During a guided tour from Hutte, she revealed self-checkout technology is still being figured out. Once launched, it could potentially streamline the process of borrowing library materials.
Hutte also shared her hopes of adding a craft room to the LLC. She hopes this building can be a third space, making it more of a hub for various Panther experiences.
The multimedia rooms that are run by Chaffey’s distance education team are still not open for the time being, though they may be similar to the old library’s setup.
While the LLC hosts plenty of modern features, some students wish it also had a café built in. Currently, food and drinks are not allowed inside, even on the balcony.
Behind the scenes
This new building would not have been possible without Measure P funding. Almost a decade after the bond was approved, the LLC opened its doors for Panthers to enjoy this $75 million space.
It also would not have been ready without the work of the library staff. They worked to transfer the collection, added RFID tags to all the books and changed organization systems for a more modern style of management. The discord server run by the staff also helps Panthers navigate the LLC experience remotely.
What to take from this new space
There is something for everyone to make of this new building. The staff encourage Panthers with any purpose to stop by. Whether that is people watching through the large windows or maximizing the free resources there, this building is intended to be a transformative environment.
With time and more use, the LLC will adapt and grow to serve Panthers better. In the meantime, all it takes is one visit to discover how this new space can serve you.