Library spaces are continuously being redefined. Libraries can no longer solely provide a quiet only environment. At Saint Paul University (SPU), the library has been changing its footprint and has created a collaboration area in an attempt to align classroom and student needs, which are seeing an increase in group assignments. The library has removed most of its reference collection, integrating the majority of the collection with the regular collection in order to provide more space for students. We partnered with the Saint Paul University Student Association, by organizing a weekly board game night in the collaboration area. These initiatives were done in hopes of having social gatherings, as well as an attempt to draw more students to the library and promote library activities, including training and awareness sessions. Over the past year, the SPU Library has seen a 13% increase in foot traffic, which challenges the trend of most academic libraries which are seeing a decrease. This presentation will focus on space redefinition and engagement with a particular focus on the challenges including managing expectations and change with faculty members who were against most of these new ideas.
