Students work in the Learning Commons. Photo: CSUN/Oviatt Library.

The Delmar T. Oviatt Library has always represented the heart of California State University, Northridge. The recent addition of a Learning Commons–new, dynamic study space–has turned that life force into an even more vital part of the university community.

The public is invited to join the CSUN students, faculty and staff as they celebrate the grand opening of the Learning Commons from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 3. University President Dianne F. Harrison will be joined by other dignitaries for a ribbon cutting ceremony that will officially “open” this completely re-imagined learning environment which features a bright, open, modern setting with flexible work areas, enhanced study spaces featuring ergonomic furniture, laptop and tablet checkout, and interactive digital signage.

“We already see students benefiting from the increased collaborative study areas, the abundance of technological programming and continued stellar research support of librarians and technology staff,” said Coleen Martin, the library’s coordinator of outreach services. “All of these things make it a place students gravitate to while they navigate their way on campus.”

In addition to ever-present librarians offering research consultation, the Learning Commons houses an Information Technology help desk and a full-service Freudian Sip coffeehouse.

“I’m very proud of the many ways that we are now partnering with other groups on campus,” said Mark Stover, dean of the Oviatt Library. “The Freudian Sip coffee house is providing coffee and snacks, comfortable seating, and an atmosphere of intellectual stimulation for students. The Learning Resource Center (LRC), CSUN’s excellent campus tutoring and writing service, now makes it home on the 3rd floor of the Oviatt Library. And, Information Technology has set up a help desk in the Learning Commons to assist students with technology-related questions.”

The opening celebration will feature live music and guided tours that will highlight the myriad of Learning Commons’ resources and services. People wishing to attend the celebration should RSVP by Sept. 25 at http://library.csun.edu/. GrandOpening. For more information about the grand opening, call (818) 677-7629

The Oviatt Library is located at the center of the Cal State Northridge campus at 18111 Nordhoff St. in Northridge. Parking is $6.00 and daily parking permits may be purchased at booths or online at www.thepermitstore.com/csun/event/.

Information about all Library events can be found at the Exhibitions and Events page on the library’s website at http://library.csun.edu/blogs/goingson or by calling (818) 677-2638. Persons with disabilities needing assistance and deaf and hard of hearing person needing interpreters, please call in advance for arrangements.