Because I did not have school library experience in the real world, this course gave me an idea of what to expect and look behind the scenes so-to-speak. I had the honor to have reached out to a school librarian who shared with me her organized documentation that I was able to extrapolate the information for my assignments.
The assignment that I found very exciting was the discussion board on space design, classroom management, and collaboration. Here was part of my contribution to space design:
MODULE 3, Discussion Board Post
SPACE DESIGN
If I were to oversee designing my school’s library, I would consider several things other than just space utilization. I learned quite a bit of ideas from Dr. Taylor’s lecture for this module:
Quiet Space
Other than being centrally located, I would ensure that there are walled spaces that separates the entrances and exits to ensure that there are quiet spaces to read and study.
Seating
I would look at how seating is arranged around books and makerspaces. Upon doing Google searches on this, I saw some very cool and interesting library space designs that makes use of great color and space utilization.
I, for one, believe in traditional table and chairs, but would like to sprinkle in couches, sectioned off makerspaces, and a designated reading circle.
Bookshelves
I would make sure that bookshelves are not too tall for the children and would like to integrate comfortable reading nooks to promote silent reading.
Learning Commons
My new library would be a mixture of learning commons but with books as the central focus in the space.
Testing Center
I would have a separate space for FCAT (state-wide) testing and not have the media center closed because of it. This is an unfortunate yearly event having to shut down library services because of testing. It disrupts classroom lessons and does not allow library services to be utilized.
Makerspace
The makerspace is dependent on the school and their budget. The Title I school I taught at, had the school librarian oversee the morning show after bell work that get streamed into the classroom. The students read news and announcements and weather, etc. It was poorly made and unreliable. If the school requires the media center to oversee the morning news show, I will work it into its designated space and lesson plans (a whole other topic).
Interior Design Theme
I believe libraries are something to be treasured; therefore, the design I would like to implement is something magical – a space that inspires students to explore and learn. Here are some very magical design and entrances.
NOTE: Budgetary constraints are an issue in urban and Title I schools. I know, I taught in one. I would still try to find funding to make the library a special space for the students regardless because they deserve it just as much as the charter and private schools. I believe the same space utilization and interior design can still be achieved at some level and should be highly considered. Students appreciate the time spent and consideration that has been put into making their spaces. They do not have to be subjected to the drab and outdated tables, chairs, classrooms, and libraries.
The insight that I gained from this course really helps me figure out what the job expectation is for a school librarian in the State of Florida.
The budget module and the program evaluation module in this course were very, very helpful; however, being an outsider trying to mull through one school’s budgeting and school data that I was unfamiliar with, was a bit daunting but very necessary.
Overall, I really enjoyed my learning process and found the recorded lecture helpful to help me guide me through the modules and assignments as well as the informative readings that coincide with them. This course gave me an idea of what the dynamic role of the school librarian entails and why it is important to keep advocating for this important position to keep at the forefront in our schools.
By the Stacks 