Building It

One of the major goals of the faculty and staff at the Marriott Library is to not just meet the needs of users, but to actively anticipate what those needs will be in the near future. In response to the changing educational technology landscape, we are excited to be in the planning stages of a new space we are calling ProtoSpace. In fact, we have already started moving into this new area on level two where we currently have 17 3-D printers, the Digital Matters Program, a VR open lab, and a new VR classroom.

So what do we envision for ProtoSpace? First and foremost, it will be a flexible teaching and learning space where students and faculty will come to create – whether they are using 3D printers for a class assignment or working with library staff and other colleagues on a new training system that employs virtual reality.

Since there is a demand for fabrication and simulation technologies, we will be adding more of this kind of technology and equipment. We are also anticipating an increased interest in computationally enhanced research techniques such as machine learning and data visualization, interactive media, and the use of artificial intelligence and this technology will also be available in ProtoSpace.

Long story, short – ProtoSpace is a place where ideas will take shape. The Marriott Library is thrilled to be at the forefront in creating a unique, cutting-edge environment —onwards in our pursuit of providing “All U Need” for our students and faculty!