8.31.2015

New: 2nd Floor Computer Space



Our space innovations continue with a new computer lab space on the second floor of the library. The space includes:
  • 12 new computers
  • A group study table with central plug-in for your laptop and the HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) connector for the monitor. You can check out adaptors and a remote at the Circulation desk on the first floor
  • An all-in-one Printer/Copier/Scanner (Black & White or Color printing)
Let us know what you think of these and other changes to your library spaces at
http://bit.ly/library_space. #3rdspace

Bill English,
Head of Library Computing & Information Services

8.24.2015

The Library Welcomes You to Fall 2015!



We're excited to have you back on campus! The library has gone through several transformations during the summer to accommodate several new campus ventures: the new GIMM (Gaming Interactive Media, and Mobile Technology) space, located on the first floor of the library (where Microforms used to be); the College of Innovation and Design, located on the 2nd floor of the library; and the library's own MakerLab, which will house our 3D printing, audio & video editing, microcomputing, and more.

To integrate these changes library staff shifted and moved about 850,000 volumes from the stacks, which means some things have been relocated--our audiovisual materials (DVDs, VHS, books on tape/CDs) are now on the third floor, and Government Documents will be located on the fourth floor. We will be adapting and updating you throughout the semester as projects are completed.

Other services you can enjoy at the library include:
  • Wireless networking choices throughout the building 
  • A computer lab on the first & second floors running the latest Microsoft Office suite
  • Interested in 3D printing? We have them and we'll show you how to use them!
  • Scanners and multiple BroncoPrint stations, including wireless printing
  • Access to over 320+ research databases
  • Library hours for the semester are listed in our calendar
  • Browse Boise State research and scholarship via ScholarWorks
  • Check out Mac and PC laptops, as well as iPads, chargers, headphones & other gear from the Circulation desk on the first floor
  • Huge collection of eBooks via the library catalog
  • Reserve study rooms in the library
  • Streaming video databases on a wide range of subjects--watch online or on your portable device
  • Subject guides in fields such as Digital Humanities, Raptor StudiesManagement, Anthropology, and many more via the library's subject guides
  • A Starbucks on the first floor, next to the library's main entrance
  • Have questions about research, campus, or anything at all? We’re available to help you via our Help page or our social media channels like Facebook, and Twitter. We're well represented on Pinterest and Instagram too. 
  • In a rush? Text us your questions at (208) 546-9982
We strive to make your research and study spaces as comfortable and useful as possible. Welcome to your Boise State Library. We hope you have a fantastic fall semester!

8.22.2015

New skateboard racks

Are you tired of having to keep track of your skateboard while in the library? How about having it fall over?

There is now a lockable skateboard rack inside the library! Just slide your deck between two of the large tubes, grab the ring above and below your board, loop your padlock through, lock it, and you're done!

8.21.2015

Try Out Your New Library Study Spaces

View of the Greenbelt, from the Library's 3rd floor.

Summer has been a busy time for Albertsons Library. While preparing space for the College of Innovation and Design, and GIMM Lab we have made a lot of changes to the library study spaces.

For several years, the 3rd and 4th floors of the library were considered quiet floors. As we have been opening up more study group rooms on those floors, we have found that the volume levels have (not surprisingly) increased in those areas. We want to develop study spaces that would accommodate multiple types of learners and the different ways students work. The 4th floor has the most group study rooms, so starting Fall 2015 semester, it will be opened up as a collaborative space. The 3rd floor will remain a quiet floor. We have also added an additional quiet space -- the McCain Room will now be designated as a quiet study area.

With all the changes we’ve been making, we want user feedback! These changes are experiments to see what works and what does not. We need to know how YOU use the library. Where is your space? Let us know via our survey or tweet us at @BSULibrary.

Mary Aagard,
Access Services