Christopher Vinson
Head of Library Technology
Clemson University
Kelsey Sheaffer
Creative Technologies Librarian
Clemson University
This project briefing will detail three occupancy-management technologies, and their accompanying policies and procedures, that were deployed by Clemson Libraries to address the challenges of operating a physical library during the COVID-19 pandemic. Clemson’s main library, Cooper Library, is currently open and is tracking occupancy through a combination of novel and existing solutions: 1) a home-grown access management system that uses institutional IDs, 2) a real-time entry/exit automatic counter, 3) seat and appointment booking through Springshare. The three-pronged approach allows for immediate control and oversight, while providing safe and equitable access to the Clemson University community. Each project required unique policy and procedure planning. Of particular note is the collaboration with university central IT to create and customize the access management system, which was also deployed in campus dining halls, bookstore, fitness centers, and showcased on the university’s mobile app. The project enhanced institutional interdisciplinary partnerships and solidified a long-term collaborative network. Additionally, Clemson’s customization of Springshare’s seat booking system provides a unique vantage point into the decision-making process and the adoption of multiple systems for discrete needs, though it required extensive research and customization. We will share data from other schools about their seat booking and occupancy management configurations and solutions to compare with our own decisions. The project briefing will also cover the implications that the decisions we make now have for future operations of our organization.
https://libraries.clemson.edu/seats/
