Reflecting the voice of the student: A case study from The Pennsylvania State University using mixed-methods in assessing space

Purpose: The purpose of this paper, conducted at Penn State University, is to inform a redesign of the library facility integrating a Collaboration Commons projected to cost over $20m. Design/methodology/approach: A mixed-methods design comprised of observation, focus groups, conversations with students, interviews with Knowledge Commons personnel and a UX Café was employed. Researchers investigated the students’ need for workspaces and soft-seating. Findings: Findings suggested that students generally come to the libraries with a goal of being productive and they value the productivity generated by spacious and well-designed workspaces over the comfort of soft-seating. Students desire an increase in the availability of workspaces. Originality/value: These findings informed facility enhancement recommendations, and have been integrated into the program statement made available to design firms bidding on the renovation project.