The Jerry Falwell Library has a number of technologies that enable the library to use space efficiently, facilitate student learning, and contribute to the academic atmosphere.
Automated Storage and Retrieval System
While approximately 65,000 of the newest and most frequently used items in the library’s main collection are stored on browseable shelving in the four-story Book Tower and two-story Caudell Reading Room, the bulk of the library’s materials are housed in an Automated Storage and Retrieval System (ASRS), commonly referred to as The Robot. Taking up one-seventh of the space needed for traditional shelving, the ASRS has a capacity of approximately 575,000 items that can be retrieved using three robotic cranes. Items from the online library catalog can be requested and picked up at the library’s Customer Service Center within minutes.
Media Wall
A main focal point in the Esbenshade Atrium is a media wall that is 22 feet wide by 12.5 feet high. It currently features news and weather as well as university social media and events. Visitors can launch additional special content on the Media Wall such as a virtual tour of the library, a university timeline, and presentations featuring examples of student and faculty scholarship.
Osborne Assistive Learning Technology Center
Located in JFL 262, this center houses a special collection of equipment and software specifically designed to help those with audio or visual impairments. Students needing assistance can contact the Office of Disability Accommodation Support.
Computers and Print Stations
The library provides access to 116 Windows and Mac computers as well as Wi-Fi throughout the building to facilitate the use of personal devices. Additionally, students, faculty, and staff can send a print job from a library computer or their own devices and release it with their Flames pass at one of the print/copy/scan stations located throughout the library.
Telepresence Technology
Telepresence technologies facilitate interactive virtual learning. Various forms of this technology are available in the Active Learning Classroom (JFL 171) as well as in the group study rooms in the JFL 261 suite.
Book Scanner
A book scanner is available in the 220 group study room area for easy digitization of print resources to a USB Drive.
Battery Kiosks
The library provides two battery kiosks containing 48 portable batteries for customers to charge their devices such as laptops, tablets, and cell phones. One is located in the upper atrium, and the other is near the 220 group study rooms. Customers can use their Flames pass to check out batteries at no cost. Batteries provide a charge of 3+ hours and can be returned to either kiosk. Customers can visit the Customer Service Center to checkout common power cables to charge their devices.