CANTON -- SUNY Canton's Southworth Library Learning Commons is the subject of a new article about evolving beyond books and collections.

Former Library Director Michelle L. Currier and current director Cori Wilhelm recently published "Examining the Case of an Academic Library's Student-Focused Patron-Satisfaction Approach to Organizational Transformation for Student Retention," in the Library Leadership & Management Journal.

The article serves as a case study and chronicles the library's transformation into a completely student-centered space in response to student requests.

"In the span of a few years, we saw the library change from a minimally-used resource to a hub of campus life," Currier said. The article examines how the quality of student relationships with libraries is a critical variable “in overall satisfaction and retention."

In 2012, the Southworth Library Learning Commons earned a number one ranking among its peer SUNY institutions. In 2015, it was the highest rated library in the entire SUNY system. Both rankings were established through the SUNY system-wide Student Opinion Survey.

Wilhelm said that the library had undergone several updates during the past several years and renovations that made the building more attractive. Staff also expanded hours to meet the students’ needs.

"We've expanded our popular textbook loan program, which allows students access to textbooks that they may not be able to purchase," Wilhelm said. She said additional support for the program led to a usage increase.