Creating Ever-Evolving, School-Specific Learning Commons

Rachel Sandoval

CO

Reference
Kincaid, K, & Pfau, P. (2015). Creating ever-evolving, school-specific
     
         learning commons. Teacher Librarian, 42(4), 8-14.

Summary

This article briefly introduces the reader to the the history and some of the main concepts of the learning commons. It describes a variety of schools their their interpretations (physical and theoretical) of the learning commons and how they have been implemented. Beginning with the physical space, specifically the information desk, the author gives an overview for librarians to begin thinking the different spaces in the library and to perhaps think of new ones that aren't in the library now. Each with a short description that gives the reader a jumping off point to begin imagining it in their library.

The remainder, and bulk, of the article deals with the conceptual/theoretical aspects of a learning commons. Providing answers, views and their solutions, different libraries answer some of the following: 

Is the Learning Commons and extension of the classroom?

How is library space used based on the schools goals and/or focus?

What about Makerspaces?

The author also lists questions prompting the reader to consider current and future library issues, such as changes in curriculum, technology, green/outdoor spaces, lighting, etc.

Ending the article, the author highlights the UC Berkley library's implementation of a learning commons during its remodel in 2008. 

Evaluation

This is a good general article for a person learning about learning commons and attempting to re-imagine their own library with a learning commons. It does start with the emphasis on school libraries, but ends with a university libraries experience, demonstrating that learning commons are not limited one type of library nor are they limited to one type of interpretations. It touches upon the ideas that each library/school needs to understand what their users needs are now and in the near future with the and asks the library to analyze its role.