College can be challenging, but finding academic support should not be.
That is the idea behind the new Learning Commons, located on the second floor of College of Western Idaho's (CWI) Nampa Campus CapEd Student Success Center (NCSC). By bringing together the Library, Tutoring Services, and the Writing and AI Literacy Center, the Learning Commons gives students one place to find academic support, whether they are starting a research project, preparing for an exam, strengthening study skills, or revising a paper.
Before NCSC opened, many of these services were located in different buildings across Nampa Campus. Students often needed to travel between locations to meet with a librarian, tutor, or writing consultant. Now, they can access research help, tutoring, and writing support in one visit, making it easier to get the help they need.
While each service offers specialized expertise, they all share one goal: helping students succeed in the classroom.
Library
The Library helps students build research and information literacy skills while connecting them with the resources they need to succeed. Librarians assist students with finding credible sources, navigating research databases, evaluating information, and developing effective research strategies for class assignments.
Students can check out books, reserve study rooms, use technology, access online resources, and schedule one-on-one research consultations with a librarian. Whether you are beginning a research project or looking for a quiet place to study, the Library provides support every step of the way.
Tutoring Services
Tutoring Services offers free academic support in a wide range of subjects through drop-in assistance, scheduled appointments, online tutoring, and workshops. Tutors help students strengthen course concepts, prepare for exams, improve study strategies, and build confidence in challenging classes.
Because many tutors are current or former CWI students, they understand the courses they support and can relate to the challenges students may be facing.
Writing & AI Literacy Center
The Writing and AI Literacy Center supports students throughout the writing process, from brainstorming ideas to revising final drafts. Consultants help students strengthen writing skills while encouraging critical thinking and effective communication.
The Center also helps students develop AI literacy by teaching the responsible, ethical, and effective use of emerging artificial intelligence tools in academic settings. Students can explore how AI can support learning while developing the skills needed to evaluate information, think critically, and maintain academic integrity.
Why Bringing These Services Together Matters
Students rarely need just one type of academic support.
A research assignment might begin with a librarian, continue with a writing consultant, and finish with a tutor who helps reinforce course concepts. By bringing these services together, the Learning Commons makes those transitions easier and encourages students to take advantage of multiple resources during a single visit.
The space also includes study rooms, collaborative work areas, and flexible seating where students can meet with classmates, study independently, or connect with peers between classes.
Looking Ahead
The Learning Commons is now open in NCSC and welcomes students, staff, and faculty. While the building's grand opening celebration is scheduled for Aug. 20, students can already take advantage of the academic support, study spaces, and collaborative environment the Learning Commons offers.
As the Learning Commons continues to grow, outreach events, partnerships with faculty, and new programs will further expand opportunities for students to connect with academic resources and build the skills they need to succeed.
By bringing the Library, Tutoring Services, and the Writing and AI Literacy Center together in one location, the Learning Commons makes it easier for students to find the support they need, when they need it.
For current hours and locations, visit the Learning Commons webpage. You can also explore the Library, Tutoring Services, and Writing and AI Literacy Center webpages to learn more about the support available through each area of the Learning Commons.
