E. H. Butler Library

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Buffalo State College

Information Commons desk in the lower lobby

What is an Information Commons?

An Information Commons (IC) is an innovative concept adopted by many academic libraries to bring together in one location the technology and expertise necessary to support the information needs of the college community. The IC incorporates library services, computer technology and assistance, and media production services, allowing students to pursue the entire research process from beginning to end in one supportive environment.

What does this mean for Butler Library?

Butler Library already has many of the resources and services that make up an Information Commons, but our confusing three-story building imposes a roadblock for many students who aren't sure where to find help. The IC at Butler Library provides a focal point for library-wide information.

And the future?

The Information Commons is evolving! Additional services will be added. Watch for news throughout the semester.

Come to the Commons for…

Computers and Computer Assistance
    Computer labs throughout the building offer a variety of licensed software packages on nearly 200 student-use PC and Macintosh computers.

    The Computing Help Desk, located in the Information Commons area, is staffed from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday to assist students, faculty, and staff with computer problems.

    The Application Support Desk is a central point of service for software-related assistance and equipment loan for faculty, staff, and students of Buffalo State College.

    Student Computer Proctors offer assistance with e-mail, word processing, spreadsheets, and other computer applications all hours the library is open.

    Night owls and early birds will find computers and proctors to assist them in StudyQuad, open 24 hours from Sunday through Thursday, and until midnight Fridays and Saturdays during fall and spring semesters.
Group Study Rooms
    StudyQuad includes two group study rooms which may be reserved on a first come, first served basis. Sign up notebooks are in StudyQuad on the table next to the proctors’ station.
Research Assistance
    Ask a reference librarian for help with your research questions in person, by telephone, via e-mail, by appointment, or through 24/7 chat.

    Subject Guides on over 35 topics will help jump-start your research.
Writing Help Center
MISSION

The Information Commons provides quality service, expert help, and seamless access to information in a supportive high-tech environment that empowers the Buffalo State community to access, evaluate, and ethically use information to promote academic excellence.

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E. H. Butler Library
Buffalo State College | State University of New York
1300 Elmwood Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14222
(716) 878-6300 | library@buffalostate.edu

This page was last updated on April 8, 2008