Mobile me?
Jan 2nd, 2009 by Cathy Jo Nelson
I read this today in Mary Woodard’s Blog The Top Shelf–essentially Dallas Public Library has created a branch in a local mall. Fantastic idea!! All I could think is how this could be modified for the school library. I know my circ stats are not what I want them to be, despite investing a large sum of money last spring in new books to replace the weeded books (from my year long weed project last year.) It is disappointing to see fewer and fewer classes as a whole come to the libary to check out books, especially considering the improved collection this year.
Kids Prefer Electronic Research
I don’t fault my teachers, and don’t get me wrong, I have classes coming regularly for research and such. But the vast majority are coming with every intention of using electronic resources. I work hard to ensure my students understand web evaluation, and that we have databases and state e-resources to meet their needs, and then try song and dance to get them to look at the new print resources around the library, but I am only one person (who doesn’t necessarily sing or dance well.) But the reality is fewer classes are coming, and I suspect some only come because none of our three computer labs were available. Sigh.
A Mobile Me?
So as I read Mary’s post I realize perhaps this could be modified to meet my needs. A “mobile” school library of sorts that could be set up in the cafeteria during lunches and in the gym in the morning where kids wait for school to begin. Don’t get me wrong, students may visit the library during both these times, but perhaps having it “in their faces” would remind them of this fact.
Meet Them Where They are At
I wonder if I could fashion a cart to have popular titles, magazines, audiobooks, and assorted other literacy materials available for check out. I wonder if I could set up some of our older laptops for checkout as well for students who want or need to work on projects. Too bad my school does not offer wifi. But surely this could increase my stats some….Maybe the “pimped” up cart could also be equiped with comfortable folding chairs…
It’s an interesting thought that’s for sure, and maybe one I explore with a grant. Thanks for the post Mary.
Great idea, Cathy. I’ll be interested to see how it works out for you! Thanks for reading The Top Shelf.
I went to a Georgia Library conference and a Media Specialist did a presentation called This is How We Roll! Serving the Unique Needs of 8th grade readers. She takes a cart of books to an area in the school where most of the 8th grade homerooms are during homeroom and a little before (I think) and the students can check out and return items. Some of the items on the cart could be for reading enjoyment, some for class projects, whatever. It worked for her. I have not tried it yet, but may soon because of some of the same issues you talk about.
Cathy,
I really like your giving some thought to this topic…we all need to do the same. Not only in the days of budget cuts, but because our children need to be able to read the printed word as well as grasp the importance for an understanding of written communication.
2009 is going to be a year dedicated to all aspects of reading in Horry County Schools and our county. (this is just one of the topics we will discuss at our district meeting on Jan. 6th) I hope we can provide all sorts of experiences for our children, parents, and the community.
Technology is wonderful! I love it and understand our children must have a grasp on it’s proper utilization. I believe that a good foundation of written communications is the basic first step for any use of technology. They should not be competitors, but rather counterparts that all of us can master.