Page 37 - Technology plan fy2023-27

People are of central importance to the mission of any type of library. In school libraries, the
significance of people is twofold. First, a certified library media specialist and capable
paraprofessional staff must appropriately staff the new learning commons. The media specialist
must be skilled not only in developing both digital and print collections, but they must also be
well versed in teaching with technology. They must be the lead technology integrationist on their
campus. Secondly, the students must be the focus of not only the design of the space and the
collection, but every aspect of the learning commons must be designed with the goal of
supporting the student both as a consumer of content and a creator of content. The Learning
Commons focuses on the personal learning needs of the student.

Consideration of the library as a place is essential to the development of the learning commons
model. The space must be collaborative and flexible by having mobile furnishings and
technology. Tools such as interactive displays, whiteboard walls, and tablets should be readily
available for student use. The space should accommodate both quiet study and noisy
collaboration. The space should encourage creative thinking and sharing by including
MakerSpace activities and digital publishing stations. The learning commons space should
affirm student work by providing shared display space and a public performance area.

Thirdly, the learning commons is also a platform. This virtual space provides 24/7 access to
digital resources and online collaborative areas. The media specialist and district library staff
work together to curate high-quality digital subscriptions and eBook collections to support
student learning. In addition, the media specialist is a guide to cloud-based resources and tools
that can be used for teaching and learning.

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