Reading this scenario made me reflect on the library in my school and how it has changed since I began working in it. Previously, it was a receptacle for books, it lacked atmosphere and was most unwelcoming for both teachers and students. It was staffed by two clerks whose job it was to catalogue, shelve and man the circulation desk check. Visitors were not encouraged at times other than scheduled borrowing times. Now our library is a hub of activity.
My first priority in moving from the classroom and into the library was to make it a welcoming and relaxing place where children and adults (both staff and parents) wanted to spend time. Some of the changes we have made are:
- children are encouraged to come in during break time and lunch time to read, play games (card, board and computer)
- teachers are welcome to come in at any time for assistance
- removed all tatty, grubby books - budget needed to be increased and books mostly replaced with hardcovers
- encouraged children, parents and teachers to make suggestions for book purchases
- increased opening times
- encouraged parents to borrow - not allowed to in the past (??) - we now have over 120 parents registered for borrowing
- installed bright, colourful displays, seating, carpets and shelves
I believe David Warner is correct in saying that a library's integral role is in "assisting young people to develop the disposition and skill to be self-directed lifelong learners". I can see that many of our little people are already on this journey; they are already developing opinions about the reading matter they like, their favourite authors and the genres they prefer to read. We have changed/improved so much in our library and I know that it will continue to evolve as long as we listen to our clients.
No comments:
Post a Comment