Today’s library: It’s more than a bunch of books on shelves

January 19, 2007

A library these days is more than a place to shelve books. That age-old perception of “shh…whisper” is extinct, too. Librarians don’t say that anymore.

Welcome to Miami Hamilton’s Rentschler Library. It’s open to the public.

“It’s not the same library as we grew up in. Libraries aren’t what they used to be,” said Krista McDonald, director of the Rentschler Library located on the second floor of Schwarm Hall. “This is the New Century Library.”

The Rentschler Library is poised to support 21st Century research and learning, complete with library labs and, soon, a new classroom with a smart screen like the one John Madden uses during telecasts of Monday Night Football.

“It’s the new-info age, and books are only a small part of what the library offers,” McDonald said. “We provide state-of-the-art library services for our students, faculty and staff, as well as the public. Plus, you can drink beverages and chew gum in here!”

You won’t get scolded for talking out loud, either. Group classes and discussions are perfectly appropriate and encouraged, and there are quiet study spaces available for individual students as well, McDonald said.

The library also has a leisure reading section which serves as a perfect lounging area for students between classes.

“We want our campus community and the general public to know what services the Rentshcler Library provides. Many people are not aware that we’re open to the public,” said Dr. Lee Sanders, Senior Associate Dean of Miami Hamilton.

McDonald said the Rentschler Library is not competing with the local Lane Public Library system. “We have different roles and we provide different services than Lane,” she said.

"The library is open on weekends and assistance is available for students enrolled in SaturdaySelect courses,“ Dr. Sanders said.

“Many students think Google is the answer to everything, but it’s inappropriate for obtaining information used in research papers,” Sanders said. Librarians are available to help students find information by using effective and appropriate library research techniques, she said.

The library lab is open for students when it’s not in use. A course detailing exactly what the new-age Rentschler Library offers, and how to use its services effectively, is being developed, McDonald said.

For the library’s open hours and more information, check out www.ham.muohio.edu/library.