Library and Learning Technologies
Through a blending of library and academic technology services, Library and Learning Technologies provides seamless professional support meeting diverse academic information, technology, and instructional design needs. Instructional design staff ensure student and faculty proficiency within the Canvas learning management system and in the use of ancillary tools supporting teleconferencing and lecture capture. Library and Learning Technologies also partners with Information Technology Services to effectively coordinate services supporting student learning and technology needs. For up-to-date information regarding technology and learning resources and support, refer to the Student Technology and Learning Guide.
Library collections in both physical and electronic formats support academic excellence and engagement at Guilford College, ensuring access to the intellectual and cultural resources necessary for the enhancement of academic programs. A vital focus is ensuring the development of students’ information and digital literacies and the informed use of teaching and learning technologies.
A unique program called The Mobile Edge enables learning mobility and exists to help address equity of access. Wifi hotspot devices are available to support remote learners who otherwise might not be able to access the internet. Technology lending includes computing and digital media equipment, e.g. PC and Mac laptops, iPads, digital cameras and camcorders, Swivl robotic video capture kits, portable interview recording equipment, and portable projectors. Accessories include tripods, adapters, clickers/presentation remotes, laptop chargers, and headphones. Specialized software such as Adobe Creative Cloud also is supported.
Library and Learning Technologies supports two unique and aligned learning spaces promoting collaboration, creation, and innovation within the Commons:
- The Teaching, Learning, and Research Collaboratory on the second level of the Commons is comprised of two adjoining spaces, the IDEA Incubator and the Experimental Classroom, which may be opened up to create one larger learning space. The mission of this unique space centers on partnering and collaboration for the advancement of innovations in teaching and learning among faculty, learning designers, librarians, and other campus partners.
- The Commons Ground features an emerging suite of makerspaces enabling students to engage in activities supporting ideation, digital presentation development, electronics tinkering and invention using Raspberry Pi and Arduino boards, augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR), and 3D printing. The Commons Ground is being developed as a unique student learning environment, complementing the Collaboratory, for fostering collaboration, creation, and innovation.
Quaker and Special Collections
Art Gallery and Permanent Art Collection
Incorporated into Hege Library as a distinctive aspect of the 1989 addition, the Art Gallery supports the academic endeavors of the College by enhancing critical thinking and visual acuity, promoting awareness of diverse cultures, fostering interdisciplinary studies, and cultivating social justice through exhibitions and the stewardship of the College’s permanent collection of fine art. While 20th century American art is predominant, the collection also includes internationally renowned artists such as Rembrandt, Picasso, and Dali; works from the Renaissance and Baroque periods; an impressive selection of contemporary Polish etchings and engravings; and the Maness Collection of Central and West African Art.
College Archives
The College’s archives, representing Guilford records of enduring value, including both administrative records and campus scholarship, are preserved and made accessible. A growing number of these resources are available online with opportunities for students to curate and reinterpret historical sources that connect Guilford’s historical legacy with larger events and issues remaining relevant in present day.
Quaker Collections
The library acquires, organizes, preserves, and makes available, not only to the College but to the wider community of researchers, materials, both published and unpublished, related to the history of the Religious Society of Friends. The collection has a special responsibility for comprehensiveness in documenting and for nurturing research relating to the spiritual, intellectual, and cultural heritage of Quakerism in the southeastern United States and has also received national recognition as a resource for anti-slavery research.
Rare Books
In addition the the Quaker Studies Collection, students have access to a Rare Book collection which focuses on texts and bindings supportive of the college's curriculum.