By Rebeca Rubio
The old sense of “hush” has been replaced with a new “hub” role and a constant “hum” of activity.” – BCTLA: From School Library to LLC
Libraries are changing. As content becomes more accessible online, libraries are evolving from places that simply hold resources, to places where learners connect with knowledge and construct new content. School District 38 (SD38) school libraries are slowly evolving into library learning commons: places of shared learning and collaborative teaching which support all members of the school community. A library learning commons supports digital literacy, innovative technologies, inquiry and challenge-based learning and love of reading. They are flexible spaces that engage students with makerspace materials, coding and robotics resources, green screens, 3D printers, art materials, games, puzzles, building materials and a broad selection of books and periodicals. In the library learning commons, students and staff work together to create exciting learning opportunities.
SD38 is committed to supporting literacy and library learning commons. Every school in the district has a trained teacher-librarian, and the district also has a large, staffed District Resource Center to further support schools with materials, books, educational technology and extensive digital resources. In addition, this year, each SD38 high school was equipped with a 3D printer. Finally, each year the SD38 school district invites school libraries to apply for library learning commons innovation grants. These grants support teacher-librarians as they shift their libraries to better meet the needs of 21st century learners. This grant can be used to shift pedagogy, support collaboration, introduce new technology, re-envision learning spaces and update resources. The following video highlights the Library Learning Commons Innovation Grants from the 2017-2018 school year.
Read more: Libraries are Changing: Our District Story
Rebeca Rubio is the Coordinator for Libraries and Information Services in SD38 Richmond, where she supports teacher-librarians in developing programs, managing spaces and developing learning commons spaces. She supports teachers and schools with resource acquisition, database navigation, digital literacy and other literacy initiatives. She also manages and maintains the District Resource Centre, acquiring and circulating valuable resources for all SD38 educators.