Libraries have always been places of discovery, creativity, and lifelong learning but Texas State University is building on that tradition by combining emerging technology with hands-on, immersive experiences that give students new ways to learn, create, and solve problems.

Located on the first floor of Alkek Library, Alkek One is a multidisciplinary innovation hub designed to help students explore emerging technologies, develop practical skills, and bring creative ideas to life. The space opened in 2020 after several years of planning and renovation, transforming what was once a dark and dreary student lounge, nicknamed “the dungeon,”  into one of the university’s most dynamic self-directed learning environments. The project was partially funded by a grant from the Albert and Margaret Alkek Foundation. 

According to Dr. Andrew Rechnitz, Assistant Vice Provost for Creative Technologies and Media Engagement in the Office of the Vice Provost for Academic Innovation, the vision was never to create a collection of disconnected technology labs.

“We wanted a collection of cross-use, co-located technology spaces that the entire campus community could use,” Rechnitz said. “The goal was to create opportunities where students and faculty from any discipline could come in, experiment, and learn.”

That philosophy is reflected throughout Alkek One, where every space is designed to be visible, accessible, and welcoming.

“It’s brightly lit, colorful,” Rechnitz said. “While there are individual areas that are kind of tucked away, it’s an open concept with lots of windows to showcase what’s happening in each space. We want students and faculty to see what’s going on here.”

The result is an environment where students are encouraged to explore technologies they may never have encountered otherwise. And it is all centrally located in the library.

Creating Content Through Video and Podcasting

One of the most popular areas in Alkek One is its collection of self-service video and audio studios.

The YouStar video studios allow students to create professional-quality videos with the push of a button. Complete with cameras, lighting, microphones, and green screens, the studios are used for everything from class presentations and thesis projects to social media content and creative experiments.

Students use the spaces for projects like Texas State’s Three Minute Thesis competition, while others simply use them for fun.

“We wanted this to be part of the value-add of college,” Rechnitz said. “A lot of people do things for both school and for fun in here.”

Just down the hall, podcast studios have become some of the most heavily used rooms in the entire library. Students record interviews, voiceovers, music, and podcasts in professionally equipped spaces designed to be approachable for beginners.

The visibility of the studios was intentional. With large windows allowing students to see others making content, curiosity is sparked, participation is encouraged, and a community of practice is created.

Rechnitz even shared that one of the podcasts produced in the studio was one of the top podcasts on Spotify. 

Exploring Virtual Reality and Immersive Storytelling

Emerging technologies are another major focus of Alkek One.

The Immersion Studio introduces students to virtual reality, game development, artificial intelligence, and immersive media. Students can experiment with VR headsets, learn Unity development for gaming, and participate in microcredential programs that teach practical workforce skills.

One recent project allows history students to experience a 360-degree Civil War environment, helping them better understand the realities of life during the conflict.

The studio is also home to the Journal of Interactive Veteran Experiences (JIVE), an initiative that uses immersive storytelling to preserve and share veterans’ experiences through videos, photographs, artwork, and digital environments.

Staff are also developing an Immersive Gallery that will allow visitors to step into projected environments and interact with stories in entirely new ways. Rechnitz explained it would be similar to the Van Gogh immersive exhibits. 

These projects demonstrate how technology can be used not just for entertainment, but for empathy, education, research, and deeper understanding.

A Makerspace Built Around Learning

For students who prefer hands-on learning, the Makerspace offers opportunities to design, build, and create.

Managed by Noah Brock, the Makerspace includes 3D printers, embroidery machines, vinyl cutters, sewing equipment, soldering stations, laser cutters, CNC equipment, and a waterjet cutter.

While many students arrive interested in 3D printing, they quickly discover a much broader world of fabrication technologies.

“The goal of this space is to teach people, not to do things for them,” Brock explained.

Every piece of equipment is accompanied by training, allowing students to build skills and confidence before working independently. Students learn everything from basic fabrication techniques to advanced digital design workflows.

The results can be impressive. Students have created elaborate costumes, custom guitars, engineering projects, artwork, and entrepreneurial prototypes.

One of the Makerspace’s most popular tools isn’t a 3D printer at all. It’s the embroidery machine, which gives students the ability to create customized apparel and textiles while learning valuable design and production skills.

The emphasis remains on education rather than production. Students are encouraged to experiment, ask questions, and develop expertise through hands-on experience.

Preparing Students for a Changing Workforce

Throughout Alkek One, a common theme emerges: technology access alone is not enough. Students need hands-on opportunities to learn how these tools work, understand their potential, and apply them in meaningful ways.

That is why Alkek One offers workshops, consultations, and microcredential programs covering topics ranging from podcasting and design fabrication to virtual reality development and artificial intelligence. Students are encouraged to explore different areas of interest, with none of their programming tied to a specific course or major. 

As emerging technologies continue to reshape industries, libraries are uniquely positioned to serve as entry points for exploration and learning.

By lowering barriers to access and providing expert guidance, spaces like Alkek One help students develop skills that extend far beyond the classroom.

In many ways, the space represents a modern evolution of the library’s traditional mission. Libraries have always connected people with knowledge and enabled people to explore new skills and interests. Today, places like Alkek One are connecting people with the tools, technologies, and experiences that will help them thrive in the future.