January 7, 2016

As Drexel students prepare to work in an increasingly digital world, libraries play a key role in providing access to information and data and in coaching members of the University community on new ways to engage with it.

W. W. Hagerty Library is continually evolving to ensure that Drexel students are confident users of information in varying formats.

The Data Visualization Zone is the result of a generous gift from the Hagerty family. The space allows students to explore and experiment with data retrieval and visualization through either a large-scale touch-screen monitor or projector. New furnishings support individual and group work as well as instruction and coaching.

One example of a way to interact with data is through use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) which allows users to visualize data in innovative ways. For example, census data might be difficult for most people to understand or use in any meaningful way. Using GIS the data could be displayed on a map, showcasing neighborhood demographics and presenting data in a dynamic and engaging way that is easier to interpret.

Members of the Drexel community can reserve the space using the Libraries' room reservation system and check out an HDMI cable to connect their own laptops or a wireless keyboard to use the Windows PCs linked to the visualization displays

The Data Visualization Zone is now available for student and faculty projects across an array of disciplines including the sciences, social sciences, engineering, business, arts and humanities. Chris Badurek is coordinating liaison librarian efforts to partner with faculty on curriculum collaboration projects and seeking to develop interdisciplinary opportunities.

Learn more about the Data Visualization Zone at an Open House on January 28, 2016 or contact Chris Badurek.