A study on research commons practices: An application approach in view of implementation at the Sabah Theological Seminary, STS

Abstract

This study aimed to survey the practices that reflect the essential characteristics of research commons particularly suited to a theological library, which could be a basis for adoption and implementation by the Sabah Theological Seminary library. This was achieved by reviewing related literature and analyzing documentations on research commons in a variety of academic libraries in universities and theological institutions in different geographical location which served as case studies. The study examined the current library services, organization and physical layout structures of STS through a combination of ocular inspection, documentation review and key informant interview. The findings from comparisons served as a basis for proposed changes and adaptations to be made at STS, to reflect research commons. The proposal is supported by a general plan that covers budget and marketing. The descriptive and qualitative nature of this study concludes that research commons at STS Library is feasible.