Libraries have changed quite a bit over the last 24 years I have worked in them. In fact, so much so that the high school ‘library’ I work in is called the ‘Learning Commons.’ Ask any “librarian” and by librarian, I mean library tech, clerk, or assistant, on this subject and they will tell you that most people’s understanding of libraries has changed over the last number of years.
The Learning Commons that I work in is a busy place. It’s the hub of the school.
Students start arriving shortly after 7:30 AM and stay until closing time at 4:30 PM. During the day students and classes ‘experience’ the Learning Commons. They study, finish up assignments, borrow Chromebooks, and work at computers. They come in with their classes and teachers, on their own with library ‘passes’, or slide in as ‘skippy-outers.’ Students gather at tables to complete work, print off job resumes, or charge their phones at the charging station. They need passwords changed, assistance with access to wi-fi, and help with their tech devices. They need help locating resources. They come into the Learning Commons to spend time in the music room, take pics in the ‘green’ space or use the recording studio. The Learning Commons is a gathering space. They talk . . . to their friends, their teachers/EAs and to my co-worker and I. Sometimes they talk a lot! Sometimes they cry, laugh, or disagree. They make connections with their friends and with staff members. Students wait for rides, decompress, and visit with their friends. They borrow . . . pens, pencils, glue sticks, staplers, loose leaf, and yes, BOOKS! They read. Sometimes because they have to . . . but more often than not, because they want to.
The Learning Commons is a space that is everybody’s place. A place for students (and staff) to feel at home.
How fortunate am I to spend my days in a room that is far more than a dusty place to do boring research.
Happy reading!
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