In spring 2013 several service units of the Aalto university contacted the library and expressed an interest in co-operation with regards to the planned Learning Center. The opportunities presented had to be seized and with designer Valeria Gryada we began interviewing the service units. The aim was to explore potential partners to accompany us to offer services in the Learning Center premises.
The requirements and wishes of the service units seemed quite similar to each other. To a great extent they also appeared similar to the wishes expressed in workshops held with students and researchers, e.g. including variety in working spaces from group working areas to quiet study spaces, gathering places and coffee shop services.
From potential partner’s point of view the perspective for the service center is however slightly different. The service units see the Learning Center becoming a vantage point and a venue for events where Aalto University’s research and activities become presented alongside different events. At the same time the center would function as a meeting point and an interaction unit, where visitors from near and far are received. All interviewees saw that the Learning Center is extremely welcome as a shared and neutral space for everyone. New kinds of spaces are being designed for the Learning Center that could fulfill these wishes.
The set of interviews have not only shown a positive attitude of other Aalto University service units towards the Learning Center, but also provided a great deal of practical information for the planning process from estimated space requirements to equipment recommendations. All service units and teams offer excellent expertise in their respective fields, and the future Learning Center can become a great example of effective collaboration between various Aalto University service units on the operational level.
Riitta-Liisa Leskinen
riitta-liisa.leskinen@aalto.fi
Customer Relationship Manager
Aalto University Library
Valeria Gryada
valeria.gryada@aalto.fi
Designer
Aalto University Library

