AGS LRC Transformation
Remember the days when the elementary school library was primarily a place to check out books, learn about the library system, and read quietly?
That worked for decades, and then student needs changed. Collaborative and flexible work styles, personalized learning, and technology now have a place alongside traditional library shelves.
Similar to how kitchens in homes are continually losing walls to become multifunctional “great rooms,” school libraries are transforming into “learning commons.”
In today’s LRC, there are typically areas for students to work on small-group projects; listen to a presentation; read and research in flexible, moveable seating; engage in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and math) activities; check out books (even using a self check-out system); and more.
At Alice Gustafson Elementary School, the LRC space is fully prepared for multi-use … and it’s getting a workout.
On a recent stop at the AGS LRC, Kristin Green’s first-grade class came in to exchange their library books and freely explore the many learning stations located throughout the LRC. Some students were drawn to the LEGO table created by former AGS student Austin Mefford as his Eagle Scout project.
Another group built a “hotel” together using building construction straws.
A few students tucked themselves in a nook to read while others drew on white boards, and played tic-tac-toe in flexible seating.
In another area, some students challenged themselves with “Perplexus” interactive mazes and expanded their creativity with mini plus-shaped construction pieces.
This was all happening while a small group of students was quietly working in the LRC’s glass-walled collaboration space and others were popping in to check out/return books.
With all this activity, one might think the LRC would be noisy and chaotic.
Not at all.
AGS LRC Director Tamra Ashby said the LRC is a bustling place, but that the space has been designed to be very well-coordinated.
“We want to give students choices in the LRC and keep them coming back for more. I change the activities in our stations often to keep things fresh,” said Mrs. Ashby, and added, “I am very grateful for our school library assistant, Martina Auer, because she helps us meet the diverse needs of our students and staff.”
Over the last few years, Mrs. Ashby said this transformation has dramatically changed her job and that she couldn’t be happier about it.
AGS LRC Director Tamra Ashby using the LRC’s touch screen to share “how-to” information with students on the Batavia Public Library’s Bookmark Contest.
“I’ve got the best job in the District!” she said with a giggle. “My day is never the same. Staff members can sign up and use this space throughout the day for so many purposes. Set library periods have been replaced with flexible library scheduling that meets the needs of students, developed collaboratively with staff. Our LRC is now an extension of what’s happening in classrooms as well as a place of pure discovery.“
Mrs. Ashby has been working with Stacey Kilburg’s first-grade class on coding. Recently in the LRC, they broke out a “Code & Go Robot Mouse” to program the mouse’s movements through a maze.
To gauge her students’ experience during a longer visit, Mrs. Ashby has students touch a “How was your day in LRC” sign on their way out. A purple 5 is the goal, but if a visit falls short for a student, Mrs. Ashby takes the opportunity later in the day to ask that student what could have made it a better experience. She uses that feedback to enhance her offerings.
It was all high fives from students in Mrs. Green’s class!
