Premium Project: A student-centered approach to library services

The UM Library collaborated with five students who participated in EDlab’s Premium Project. The six-month project, now completed, aimed to gain insights into student needs regarding library services. The findings highlighted a demand for more green spaces and collaborative areas. With Randwyck Library recently being renovated, the introduction of more greenery and new collaboration zones there reflect the library’s commitment to enhancing the student experience.

MindOnMovement: Integrating wellbeing into the renewed Randwyck Library

The MindOnMovement project, involving four Biomedical Sciences students, focuses on promoting wellbeing among students. With the collaboration between the library and MindOnMovement, running for over a year and still ongoing, the collaboration aims to engage students and incorporate scientific insights into the design of wellbeing areas within the library. Initial outcomes include posters that promote well-being in the newly added Wellbeing and Inspiration area in Randwyck Library. Soon-to-be-introduced cubes that offer tips and references to scientific articles are a result of co-creation between library staff and the MindOnMovement students. These additions aim to create a supportive environment that encourages healthy study habits and mental wellness while studying.

Service Robot (Pepper): exploring technological innovation

As part of the Living Lab concept, the UM Library collaborated with RobotCtrl (Innovation Playground), the School of Business and Economics (SBE), and the Maastricht Centre for Robotics to temporarily introduce Pepper, a service robot, to the Inner City Library (ICL). While it’s time there, it collected data for further scientific research and the robot’s effectiveness in providing information services was tested. The project, which has been running for over a year, is still in its evaluation phase.

The library as client for Horizons in Hospitality, a minor at Hotel Management School Maastricht

As assignment for the minor Horizons in Hospitality at Hotel Management School Maastricht, four students participated in a collaboration focusing on improving hospitality both within the library and in the surrounding neighbourhood. The 10-week project, completed earlier this year, provided valuable recommendations for reimagining the library’s area to make it more hospitable and foster a warm community within and around ICL. The students completed their assignment with presenting various insightful ideas that are currently being explored for potential implementation.

Brightlands collaboration: Inspiring Career Perspectives

In partnership with Brightlands, the UM Library wants to provide students with career inspiration while visiting our locations. During a six-month-long initiative, a pilot inspiration zone has been set up in the Randwyck Library, with plans to expand this initiative further. This collaboration not only connects students with potential career paths but also fosters a sense of belonging and inspiration within the library environment.

Conclusion

Maastricht University Library’s aim to foster a living lab is a testament to its evolving role in the academic community. By supporting collaboration between students, staff, and external partners, the library is not just a place with study places and books, but a vibrant hub for innovation and co-creation.