[1][2] The IC is located on Leavygreave Road, close to the University tram stop.

The project was conceived and is jointly operated by the University Library and the Corporate Information and Computing Services (CiCS).

Soon after opening, satirical British magazine, Private Eye questioned the appropriateness of the building's name as a "commons", pointing out that ordinary residents of Sheffield, temporary staff and visiting researchers from other universities are forbidden access.

The Information Commons was temporary closed during the summer vacation of 2017 due to the interior refurbishment.

The IC was reopened in September 2017 with alterations to interior design and layout.