In a newly remodeled space in the south wing of Tutt Library, students and professors alike find attractive, focused lighting; an open, energizing floor plan; colorful, comfortable chairs; a huge window that overlooks campus and encourages thoughtful reflection; consultants and tutors in writing, science, and math; and tables for group work and discussions.

An “intellectual hangout” dedicated to the idea that all students (and teachers) can become better at their work, the Learning Commons has transformed the look, feel, and functionality of the library’s first floor. “The Learning Commons draws people together to collaborate, to learn from each other, to make meaningful connections. It cultivates critical thinking, intellectual engagement, and academic success,” says Paul Kuerbis, professor of education and director of both the Colket Student Learning Center and the Crown Faculty Center.

Everywhere you look in the Learning Commons, you see learning in action:

• A group of students animatedly discussing an environmental policy issue from a variety of disciplinary perspectives
• A student brainstorming ideas for a senior thesis with a peer writing consultant
• A group of students preparing a formal presentation with digital video and sound clips
• A student working with a librarian to research an
• obscure topic
• A writer getting feedback on an early draft of
• a grant proposal
• A faculty luncheon with colleagues discussing how to effectively incorporate community experiences into their courses
• A first-year student exploring intersections between current interests and possible majors
• A study group reviewing material for an organic
• chemistry exam
• A student gazing out the window, contemplating today’s class discussion and tomorrow’s paper topic
• A student getting a refresher lesson on logarithms from a professional tutor
• A faculty seminar on structuring reading and writing assignments for first-year students

The area contains a variety of spaces:

• A comfortable study space with natural light and inviting furniture, where a person can read with her feet up or a group can gather around a table to collaborate on a project
• A high-tech meeting room for faculty luncheons and discussion that changes to student study space in the evenings
• A faculty conference room with a library of teaching and learning resources
• An amoeba-shaped table surrounded by whiteboards —
• a space designed to facilitate small group work in math and science
• Individual consulting rooms and offices for one-on-one conversations
• An advanced technology and multimedia lab
• A spacious map room to spread out projects and plan block breaks

Professional staff members are available for appointments during regular business hours, and trained peer consultants are available in the evenings and on weekends. The study spaces are open any time the library is open.

The Colket Student Learning Center was established by Ruth M. and Tristram C. Colket Jr., parents of Carolyn Cullen ’91, while the Crown Faculty Center was made possible by the Crown family.

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