Purdue Profiles: RaeLynn Boes
April 1, 2015
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RaeLynn Boes, library operations manager for the Division of Humanities, Social Science, Education and Business. (Purdue University photo/Mark Simons) |
For RaeLynn Boes, enhancing student learning and success is integral to her role at Purdue Libraries. As a divisional operations manager, she has helped shape student-centered spaces, such as the new Hicks IMPACT classrooms, that promote hands-on, active learning and reimagine the Libraries' role in student learning.
In January, Purdue Libraries received the prestigious 2015 ACRL Excellence in University Libraries Award based on its leadership in redefining the role of university libraries for 21st-century learning and the research community through innovative programs. One such program involves new and renovated space designs intended to enhance and foster Purdue student learning -- a critical objective of the Libraries’ strategic plan.
Boes is library operations manager for the Division of Humanities, Social Science, Education and Business, which consists of the Roland G. Parrish Library of Management and Economics, the John W. Hicks Undergraduate Library, and the Humanities, Social Science and Education Library.
As a library operations manager, what do you do?
In general, I support the HSSEB Division head, support libraries faculty, supervise 14 staff and four graduate assistants and oversee the facilities and services of the three libraries. I oversee the day-to-day operations and ensure that it all runs smoothly. But the role changes as libraries continue to change and adapt.
You played a role in transitioning space in Hicks to IMPACT classrooms. What are the benefits of the IMPACT programs?
The IMPACT program prides itself on fostering student engagement and increasing the attainment of course-specific learning outcomes as a result of creating student-centered learning environments by reflecting, assessing, and proactively addressing the needs of our institutional culture.
Its aim is to engage students more fully in learning, thereby improving retention and completion in classes that serve students across the entire campus. Through this program, the faculty are transforming the University's large, traditional courses into more student-centered learning environments.
Can you speak particularly to the role the library IMPACT spaces play in the program?
While the pedagogical approaches, faculty, and redesigns all contribute greatly to this student-centered learning environment, the physical environment in which these learning experiences are fostered is undeniably crucial to consider -- especially as this goal transcends needs of all disciplines, subject matter, and class sizes. Working to properly create spaces that are conducive to active learning, we will be equipping our faculty, and thus our students, for a future of engagement and success by changing the way learning occurs. The spaces achieve this through an emphasis on flexibility. Additionally, the rooms are available for library study space when they are not occupied by classes or Supplemental Instruction.
How are students using libraries today?
Students use libraries in a variety of ways, from collaboration to relaxation, which calls for dynamic spaces and 24-hour access. Students have card access to the ground floor of Hicks 24/7 and Parrish Library 24/5 during the academic year. Our student is varied so we design the libraries as such.
What are ways that you are making libraries as useful as possible for students?
We have tried to take the traditional library model and enhance it through spaces to accommodate all learning styles including quiet individual study spaces, collaborative spaces, and multimedia spaces. Research assistance, 400+ databases and an extensive print collection have turned our libraries into student research hubs. Additionally, during the final two weeks of every semester, we offer extended hours, free refreshments, and stress relief activities.
What do you think is most valuable about Purdue libraries?
That’s easy: the people. We have caring and dedicated staff working to provide the best in study spaces and resources, faculty in countless collaborations with research and instructional efforts, and cooperative relationships with other units such as the Center for Career Opportunities, Disability Resource Center and the Writing Lab.
What is something about Purdue libraries that students, and even professors, need to know about?
We are always trying to get the word out about our Ask-A-Librarian virtual reference services. Students can chat online with a library staff member at https://www.lib.purdue.edu/help/askalib for research assistance. When we’re not online, we answer by email, usually within 24 hours.
Do you have any favorite memories working in Purdue libraries?
The student entries into the "Why I Love Purdue Libraries" annual video contest, such as http://youtu.be/w9HBXM7Ja38 and http://youtu.be/_WpzqKjADQw. They are so creative, and the student perspective is invaluable as we make decisions in the future.
