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Top of Page  Why was this project necessary?
The Langson Library bookshelves were filled to over 100% capacity,
which is far beyond "functionally full" for efficient
collections management. No floor space exists for additional conventional
shelving, and so we had two options for increasing collections
capacity: install moveable compact shelving or move some material
to off-campus storage. Compact shelving was the preferable alternative
for user convenience and will provide additional shelf capacity
for approximately six years of projected growth.
This project was part of a comprehensive plan to address the space
problems in the UC Irvine Libraries, as described in UC Irvine
Libraries Update (volume
20, No. 1, Fall/Winter/Spring 2001) which was distributed to
all UCI faculty and administrators.
Top of Page What is compact shelving?
Compact shelving is high-density mobile shelving that enables
twice the capacity of fixed shelving within a given space. Within
the Langson Library basement, this will mean space for shelving
nearly 500,000 volumes more than the building currently
accommodates. The shelving units move smoothly on tracks. An aisle
is available between every 4-6 shelving units to minimize the number
of shelving ranges that cannot be accessed at any given moment.
Both electrical and mechanical-assist systems are available, both
of which are quick and effortless for library patrons to utilize.
Both types of systems incorporate safety features. After conducting
a competitive bidding process, the UCI Libraries have selected
an electrical system.
Top of Page What key factors influenced the Libraries'
approach to the project?
We can install compact shelving in the basement only, since a
ground floor slab is necessary to support the combined weight of
twice as many shelves and books.
The basement compact shelving is accessible to all library users,
who are able to move the shelves quickly and easily. The moveable
shelving units are equipped with safety features.
Up to 35-40% of our Langson Library general collections are now
housed in the compact shelving (approximately 15,000 shelves) to
provide about six years of growth space for the entire Langson
Library collection.
Many low-use materials already have been transferred to the Southern
Regional Library Facility (SRLF), and we will continue to send
such materials to SRLF every year. As a result, we must put collections
in compact shelving that are not necessarily low-use.
Top of Page How can I give the library feedback?
The Libraries consulted extensively with campus groups and faculty
throughout the planning process, and we warmly appreciate the feedback
that we received.
Please send any comments to Lorelei Tanji, Assistant University
Librarian for Collections (x45216, ltanji@uci.edu)
at any time.
In addition, faculty may contact their individual subject
bibliographers with any questions or comments.
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