Transformation of traditional libraries

Shibrie Wilson

ET, CO, IL, Z

Holland, B. (2015, February 14). 21st-Century Libraries: the learning commons. Retrieved from http://www.edutopia.org/blog/21st-century-libraries-learning-commons-beth-holland

Summary: Since 2600 BCE libraries have existed for purpose of archiving recorded knowledge. Due to technology and accessibility in many locations libraries are reinventing themselves sense materials are no longer confined to print. Institutions are creating environment in which text materials are obsolete and therefore encouraging libraries to revamp spaces creating and environment for "collaboration and knowledge con-construction." Due to digital technology students no longer need access to library to retrieve resources. Libraries are becoming learning commons in which encourages participatory learning and provides variety of sources. Within article are different accounts of school librarians successfully initiating transformation in school libraries.  A school located in Chicago has transformed library into a flexible space with moveable furniture, break out rooms, and additional resources created to encourage collaboration and sharing. Creating a space without barriers was the concept of a high school librarian in Austin, Texas deemed as "library hub." Opposed to stereotypical environment of silence and independent study this library discourages  such and encourages collaboration and active learning. Providing culminating activities create learning hubs, and transparent facilities are way in which libraries can supplant the traditional. Creating an environment in which students can create their own environment. Innovative transformation of libraries will inspire students. 

Review: Inspiring article for all librarians and specifically for those who recent library graduates and those in library studies for programs. This a great article in which exposes different aspects of how libraries are and will continue to be relevant in evolving world of technology. One contribution in which I noticed is that librarians in article were benefactors of change and were not afraid to disassociate themselves from the norm.