“The biggest problem in
our library is that there are too many books!”
– Michael, high
school junior.
After the sting wore off, honestly, I’d say that single
statement has brought about more reflection, conversation, and call to change
than any other. No, we didn’t toss out
our books, but we have reexamined our collection and reevaluated the way we
utilize space.
With our student advisory team (Michael included) and the
support of our library leadership and amazing administrators, we researched,
surveyed, went on field trips, consulted experts, wrote grants and dared to
dream.
Our results?
- After extensive, purposeful weeding, a collection that is way more relevant.
- A “satellite” location for our infrequently used – yet still important – nonfiction collection. (Don’t worry, it’s safely tucked away in our school basement – secure and quickly retrieved upon request.)
- A genrefied fiction section that honors the book store format and browsing style our students requested.
- More wide-open, zoned spaces that accommodate all – cave, water cooler, campfire, and mountain top spaces – individuals, small collaborative groups, and whole classes!
- The Nest – our school’s coffee shop that has been relocated to the LMC.
I won’t lie, this reorganization was labor intensive and
time consuming, but totally worth it. Student
and staff reactions to the improved layout have been overwhelmingly positive –
whew! Now, on to the next phase of our
library transformation…
