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Franklin D. Schurz Library

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History of the Hammes Information Commons


Thanks to the generosity of a lead gift from Jerry and Dorene Hammes, the former reference room of the Franklin D. Schurz Library was renovated during the summer 2007 to create the Hammes Information Commons.

We worked with Jerry Stuff from the IU Architect's Office and Ana Maregatti and Doug Shoemaker from Maregatti Interiors to design the 4377 square foot area. Brown and Brown was the general contractor and most of the furniture is from Herman Miller, a company with a long history of commitment to environmental stewardship. The total cost of the project was just over $300,000 which was paid for primarily from private donations.

The Hammes Information Commons houses the Schurz Library's 10,000 volume print reference collection, along with nearly 50 workstations to access to the Library's digital collection of over 150 databases and nearly 30,000 electronic journals. There is also productivity software students need to complete their projects. Many of the spaces for workstations are large enough for students to work collaboratively and for faculty to coach them. There are also informal learning spaces to encourage small groups of faculty and students to continue conversations begun in the classroom. The Hammes Information Commons also hosts technology to facilitate production of multimedia. Additionally, there is a large flatbed scanner and a 42" mobile plasma display monitor for use by faculty or large groups anywhere in the Hammes Information Commons. There is also an Adaptive Technology Room with specialized software for students with disabilities. Wireless network connection is available throughout.

A ceremony was held on October 23, 2007, dedicating the space to Dorene Hammes. [Dedication Ceremony Program]

The Hammes Information Commons is a collaborative effort of the Library, Instructional Media Services, and Information Technologies.

If you have any questions or comments, please contact Michele Russo, Dean of Library Services, at mrusso@iusb.edu or (574) 520-4448.

Photos

Dedication of Hammes Information Commons

Hammes Information Commons

Renovation of Reference Room

Construction of Reference Room

Demolition of Reference Room

Moving of Reference Room

Renovation plans for the Hammes Information Commons
- designed by Maregatti Interiors

Current Library Setting - First Floor