Library Facility Design
Course
Instructional Spaces [3:38]
Learn the key traits in designing student learning spaces, including large group spaces, small group spaces, individual study spaces, and makerspaces.
In broad terms, these learning spaces can be broken down into four categories: large group space, small group space, independent work space, and makerspace. These spaces may overlap or be named differently in your library and there's no one right design for every library. But, with that in mind, let's look at features you might want to consider for each of these four areas.
A large group space should provide enough room for at least one full class to gather. Maintaining this space's flexibility is paramount. Use moveable furniture, such as light (but durable) tables and stackable chairs. Also contemplate an easy-to-use setup for presentations—a projector, screen, and laptop should do the trick. And don't forget to plan for acoustics. How will the sound carry in the space? Do you need a microphone and speaker set up to make sure all voices can be heard? When there are large-group events—like author visits or PTA meetings—can this space be expanded by moving some of the nearby smaller bookcases?
Small group spaces also benefit from being adaptable. How can you quickly reconfigure spaces to make room for a variety of learning activities? What about small, mobile, flip-top tables? Can you use high-back chairs or mobile screens to create a sense of privacy for groups? How can you encourage collaboration? There are dry-erase tables for group brainstorming--or, for a budget-friendlier option, simply provide small whiteboards to groups.
How can you incorporate student mobility in these spaces? Allowing them to move around increases blood flow to the brain, benefiting learning. In thinking about small group spaces, remember to go back to the feedback you received from students and teachers in the needs assessment.
Although libraries are no longer silent fortresses of books, students still need quiet areas accessible to them in the library. As you are designing or refurbishing your library, include "nooks" for students to spend alone time, where they can have a sense of privacy, while remaining visible. Inserting comfortable chairs into corners is one easy way to accomplish this. Can you enrich these areas with glimpses of nature, art, or surprise objects? Create zones where students can work independently or take a moment to recharge with a book. Additionally, some students, especially those who experience sensory issues related to noise, may need quiet spaces to work with support staff. Plan for this to make your library an accessible space for all learners.
Finally, think about the possibility of including an "active learning space"—perhaps, if it's in your library's parlance, a makerspace. This can be as simple as a repurposed rolling AV cart with organized supplies for students to access in the small group workspace. Or, it can be a dedicated area of the library with durable work surface tables and mobile stools on an easy-to-clean floor. Include standing height tables when possible. A nearby sink can go a long way in keeping the space functioning cleanly. Creating some separation from other areas of the library can help decrease distraction from the sounds and sights of the makerspace. Maybe some of your technology space is integrated here or it may be in a separate area. Consider ease of clean up in this space to maintain the longevity of the space.
As you map out your new library design, keeping in mind these four types of uses—large group, small group, independent, and active—can help you design a space that works for your school community and encourages learning for all students.
Just as you might ask students to explore concepts using different modalities, allow yourself to push your thinking by getting your hands busy. First, read the SLC article, "Maker, Thinker, Hacker? Active Learning Spaces in K–12 Libraries" (in the Resources below), to learn more about possibilities for arranging a dynamic makerspace, then complete the reflection activity below.
Create a 3D version of a makerspace/active learning area for your students. Use Play-Doh, clay, Legos, folded paper, or some other tactile materials to build out different options. Be imaginative—create the makerspace of your dreams. Afterwards, use the form above to reflect and write down what can you pull from these ideas to add to your real-life library design.
MLA Citation
Editorial Team, SLC. "Library Facility Design: Making a Makerspace." School Library Connection, November 2024, schoollibraryconnection.com/Content/Course/2171563?learningModuleId=2170983&topicCenterId=2247902.
Entry ID: 2172007
A library environment might be designed as a lively, colorful, inviting space. However, these visual elements could be overwhelming to a student with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Read the article (in the Resources below) by Nancy Everhart on of what aspects of the library environment might be distracting to students with ASD and how the librarian might design the space to be more approachable for all students, then complete the reflection activity below.
Use the SWOT and Environmental Analysis forms above to investigate your library environment. Based on your evaluation, make a list of changes you could implement in your library.
MLA Citation
Editorial Team, SLC. "Library Facility Design: Adaptive Spaces." School Library Connection, November 2024, schoollibraryconnection.com/Content/Course/2171563?learningModuleId=2170983&topicCenterId=2247902.
Entry ID: 2172011
Additional Resources
About the Authors
Email: rmorris@schoollibraryconnection.com
Twitter: @rebeccajm87.
MLA Citation
Editorial Team, SLC. "Library Facility Design. Instructional Spaces [3:38]." School Library Connection, ABC-CLIO, November 2024, schoollibraryconnection.com/Content/Course/2171563?learningModuleId=2170983&topicCenterId=2247902.
https://schoollibraryconnection.com/Content/Course/2171563?learningModuleId=2170983&topicCenterId=2247902
Entry ID: 2171563