Visit to Ohio State University Libraries: Thompson Library
In the early hours of June 6, we visited the iconic Thompson Library, the main library of The Ohio State University Libraries. We received a gracious welcome and a detailed tour of the library’s modern and flexible spaces.
The visit showcased a variety of user-centered services and amenities, including:
- Ask Us Service Desk
- Public Computers and Guest Access
- Berry Café on the ground floor
- Satellite Writing Center
- Lactation Room (access through Circulation Desk)
- Art in the Library & Library Gallery
We also toured the Research Commons, a collaborative space equipped with a space monitoring system and designed to support scholarly communication and digital research.
The presentation on Research and Scholarship Services covered a range of specialized offerings:
- Copyright services
- Data Management (including DMPs aligned with funder requirements)
- Dryad, a repository for Ohio State’s research data
- Data visualization room
- Digital humanities support
- Research impact and analytics
- Virtual lab
- Open Access Publishing
- Journal publishing services (currently supporting 15 journals)
- Institutional Repository (Knowledge Bank)
The Research and Scholarship operates with a dedicated team of 15 staff members supporting these innovative services. This evolving model aligns closely with OCLC’s strategic priorities: virtualization, collaboration, agility, and reimagined library spaces.
Visit to Westerville Public Library
Later that afternoon, we visited Westerville Public Library, a key local partner in Ohio State’s collaborative ecosystem. The library serves as an example of how public libraries can evolve into dynamic, community-oriented learning hubs.
At Westerville, patrons have access to a wide array of services and resources, including:
- A robust local history collection
- Provide wi-fi to its users
- Drive Thru
- Innovation lab
- 3D printing
- Learning kits
- Home deliveries
- History museum
- Digital media labs
- Extensive children’s programming
- Technology support and digital literacy services
- Access to ebooks, streaming media, and personalized reader’s advisory tools
This library stands out for its user-friendly space design and commitment to lifelong learning. The collaboration between Ohio State and Westerville demonstrates how public and academic libraries can partner to deliver expansive, responsive services that meet both scholarly and community needs.