Objective 3.2: Access to Information
Indicator: Candidates demonstrate their ability to develop solutions for
addressing physical, social and intellectual barriers to equitable
access to resources and services.
Poet Rita Dove once stated, “Going to the library was the one place we got to go without asking for permission.” As I read this quote I cannot help but wonder what life would be like if libraries were not readily available to us. To me, a world without libraries equates to a world without curiosity, innovation, and freedom to learn. For this reason, a school library must be a place where all students can access information and use it effectively to generate their own conclusions.
One of the best ways to ensure your library’s use is to create a comfortable learning environment. I want my library to be an organized space that invites people in, whether they are looking to use computers, locate a book, or simply find a quiet spot to work. Before designing a school library floor plan, I had not given much thought to how the layout of a library impacts the users. I was challenged to step out of the role of librarian, and into the shoes of library user. I found myself asking questions such as: ‘What would I want to see in terms of shelf arrangement?’, ‘If I were here to work quietly, would I be distracted by classes using the space?’, and ‘Can I locate various types of resources?’ This mindset helped me to see that shelf height, furniture arrangement, use of visual aids, and placement of learning zones, are just some of the decisions that have to be considered when constructing my library space. This knowledge came to be a key factor in the design of my floor plan. I was also careful to consider the many purposes for the library’s use of space—it must be a place for independent and group work, as well as be able to accommodate full classes. I had to adopt a ‘one fits all’ mentality when designing the space in order to meet the varied learning styles and needs of my students. By doing so I have created a library where all students feel welcome and confident that they can find material for their information or personal needs. Even a well designed library cannot make up for the reality that its doors must close. Just because students cannot physically access the library does not mean that they should not have access to its resources. I was sure to keep this in mind when I designed a school library website. On my website not only can one find access to all databases, but also to the school, county, and public library catalog. With this, I am offering students the best chance to find the resources that suit their cause, even after school hours. Access to a variety of electronic resources helps me to ensure that information is easily attained by learners of all levels and abilities. My website also features sections for parents, students, and teachers, each offering free resources to fit their own unique needs. Parents can find college and scholarship information, while students can receive help with homework or suggestions for research strategies. Teachers have access to classroom resources as well as lesson planning tools that can supplement their curricula. Virtual access adds to my belief that the more I offer the school community, the more invaluable my program becomes. Our job is to help students access information from which they can generate their own ideas. Although the school day comes to an end, technology makes it possible for us go above and beyond in sharing information sources at any time. If we do not consider all learners when establishing and maintaining access to our program, we are in essence denying them permission to use the library to the best of their ability. |
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