Every day we’re asked: “Do you have a space where we can meet for the next hour (or so) to work on…”
But it’s the end of the question that always changes. Sometimes it’s for a study group, or a work meeting, or conference call. Sometimes it’s for a tutor, or a civic or community organization, or sometimes the structure of the question changes. Sometimes the space is needed for only one person about to have a virtual job interview or who needs to take an exam.
Over the past year, we worked to be able to say “Yes, we have a space for that!” This space is called the CoLab.
What is the CoLab?
The CoLab is a brand new, reservable space for individuals and small groups. We have two spaces: CoLab A and CoLab B.
Each space was designed to better respond to an increasingly digital age, with comfort in mind. The CoLab is located on the second floor of the Library. Each room is equipped with different furniture and equipment, that may be best suited for different sized groups and purposes:
| CoLab A | CoLab B |
|---|---|
| 2 Long Tables | 1 Long Tables |
| 7 Rolling Chairs | 4 Rolling Chairs |
| 1 Samsung Smart TV Monitor | 3 Upholstered Chairs |
| 1 Whiteboard and Markers | 1 Coffee / Collaboration Table |
| 1 Samsung Smart TV Monitor | |
| 1 Whiteboard and Markers |
Features of the CoLab
What used to be our ‘Group Study Rooms’ have been converted into our new CoLabs. Each CoLab is freshly painted and furnished with new wall art, plants, and whiteboards.
There’s even a brand-new Samsung Smart TV Monitor in each room to allow patrons to work collaboratively or on a virtual project. CoLab B has new, fun comfortable seating and a rectangular coffee table. Soon, there will be a laptop for patrons to use in the Library. There may even be some more furniture added soon, so stay tuned!
How Does the CoLab Work?
Using the CoLab requires a reservation. Reservations can be made online up to two weeks in advance or in the moment. Next to each CoLab’s door is a sign with a QR Code, that patrons can scan to either “Check-In” (if the room is available) or to view future bookings.
Patrons can also stop by our Second Floor Information Desk if assistance is needed. Because we expect a high demand, reservations are limited to up to 2 reservations per week, for up to 3 hours at a time. You can read more about our CoLabs here: CoLab.
Community Donors
Our CoLab started because we wanted to offer a comfortable, reservable space equipped with up to date technology, but it would have never happened without the support of our Community Donors. Our CoLab was paid for through grant funding from the Greater Menomonee Falls Foundation, the Bridges Library System, and continued financial support from our Menomonee Falls Library Friends.
Without your support, our CoLab would have never happened. Thank you for making this project a reality!
The CoLab is Open!
That’s right, it’s official: The CoLab is open!
We now have two reservable spaces that can be reserved ahead of time or in the moment when it isn’t being used. If you or someone you know has an upcoming meeting, is looking for a more collaborative workspace, or has an upcoming exam or needs somewhere to go for that big job interview, then be sure to make a reservation today, and we’ll see you soon!