How to Design Learning Spaces in Libraries

Summary

In this episode of 'The Ten-Minute Teacher Podcast,' Vicki Davis interviews Carolyn Foote, a techno librarian and recipient of the 2019 ASL Library Collaboration Award. They discuss strategies for designing learning spaces in libraries, emphasizing the importance of starting with a clear mission and goals to enhance student learning. Foote suggests conducting surveys, creating vision boards, and involving students and faculty in the planning process. The conversation also touches on the evolving terminology for these spaces, with names like 'Learning Commons' and 'Research Center' being used. The podcast highlights the need for inclusive planning and the potential for rebranding to align with the new vision of the space.

Takeaways

• 📝 Start with a clear mission and goals for student learning when designing learning spaces.
• 🗣️ Conduct surveys to understand how students and faculty learn and their preferences for study spaces.
• 🤔 Encourage open-ended questions to help envision possibilities beyond traditional library setups.
• 📋 Use vision design boards to gather ideas and gauge student interest in various learning space elements.
• 🏫 Align the learning space design with the district's mission and goals to ensure it serves its intended purpose.
• 🕒 Allow ample time for the visioning process, ideally a few months, to curate ideas and gather input.
• 🤝 Involve stakeholders, including students, teachers, and administrators, to ensure a collaborative approach.
• 🏗️ Consider rebranding the space, which may involve changes to policies, programs, and how the library operates.
• 🏛️ Learning Commons is still a popular term, but many libraries are adopting unique names that reflect their specific vision.
• 📚 The ultimate goal is to create a space that facilitates research, learning, and creativity, not just change the name for appearance's sake.

Q & A

What is the first step in designing learning spaces according to Carolyn Foote?

The first step in designing learning spaces is to determine what you want to accomplish for students. This involves starting with your mission and goals and considering how the space impacts student learning.

Why is it important to survey students and faculty before designing learning spaces?

Surveying students and faculty is important to understand their learning preferences, interests, and needs. This inclusive approach ensures that the learning space meets the diverse requirements of its users.

What is the significance of open-ended questions in the survey process?

Open-ended questions allow for broader responses that aren't limited by preconceived notions of what a library should be. This encourages participants to think beyond traditional setups and consider innovative possibilities for the learning space.

How can vision design boards help in the learning space design process?

Vision design boards with photographs of various elements like robots, 3D printers, or different types of furniture can help visualize potential features of the space. Students can indicate their preferences, providing insights into what appeals to them for learning.

What is the role of dreaming and envisioning in the learning space design?

Dreaming and envisioning allow participants to think beyond current limitations and explore innovative ideas for the space. This can involve activities like designing a library of the future, which encourages creative thinking about potential features and functionalities.

How does aligning with district mission and goals influence learning space design?

Aligning with district mission and goals ensures that the learning space design supports the broader educational objectives. It helps in creating a space that facilitates connections among people, ideas, and resources effectively.

What is the recommended duration for the vision casting phase in learning space design?

The vision casting phase should ideally last a few months to allow ample time for information gathering, conversations, surveys, and research. This period is crucial for curating ideas and planning the space effectively.

Why is it beneficial to involve an advisory committee in the learning space design process?

Involving an advisory committee with stakeholders helps in getting diverse perspectives and ensures that the design process is inclusive. It also aids in aligning the project with the broader educational goals and policies of the district or school.

What is the significance of rebranding in the context of learning space design?

Rebranding can be part of the process when rethinking and redesigning a learning space. It involves changing the space's name, policies, programs, and how it operates to better align with the new vision and goals.

What are some terms used for progressive learning spaces as mentioned in the script?

Terms used for progressive learning spaces include Learning Commons, Research Center, Library Incubator, Library Technology Center, and various other creative names that reflect the space's unique features and functions.

How can student involvement in naming spaces enhance the learning environment?

Allowing students to vote on or suggest names for different areas of the library or learning spaces can increase their sense of ownership and engagement. It makes the learning environment more personalized and responsive to their preferences.