A New Normal: A Case Study on Changing Strategies in Technology Engagement at an Academic Health Sciences Library

Area of Science:

• Library and Information Science
• Educational Technology
• Academic Services

Background:

• Academic libraries are evolving services to meet post-pandemic patron needs.
• Patrons increasingly prefer flexible and hybrid learning formats over traditional in-person interactions.
• Educational technologies require updating to align with new learning paradigms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the adaptation of three technology services at a health sciences library in the post-COVID-19 era.
• To provide rationale for strategic shifts in technology service delivery.
• To offer insights for other libraries navigating changing learning environments.

Main Methods:

• Case study analysis of technology service pivots at the Spencer S. Eccles Health Sciences Library.
• Utilized available usage statistics and survey data to inform strategic changes.
• Examined modifications to multimedia studio, virtual reality (VR), and 3D printing services.

Main Results:

• Multimedia studio equipment is now available for checkout, replacing the dedicated studio.
• Virtual reality (VR) services are now offered in a staff-supported classroom setting.
• 3D printing service has been fully automated via an online submission platform.

Conclusions:

• Libraries must adapt technology services to support flexible and hybrid learning models.
• Strategic adjustments in service delivery, such as equipment checkout and automation, can meet evolving patron demands.
• The analyzed service pivots offer practical solutions for other academic libraries.