Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey (Rutgers University, School of Communication, Department of Library and Information Science)

Rutgers will use this planning grant to investigate co-working in public libraries, a new form of work organization for workers without offices, freelancers, and entrepreneurs. The project director will work with Plastarc, Inc. architect Melissa Marsh to conduct a pilot study and develop a full research proposal. The project features qualitative research that includes observations, interviews, a survey, and the creation of spatial heat maps to create visual representations of types and amounts of activity that will be used to paint a picture of how library spaces in New York and Seattle are used as public co-working sites. The project also features the use of librarian feedback to determine future directions in supporting work practices that occur in these spaces.