Ms. Spiering's Blog: New Year, New Library

When I began working here two years ago I knew that the physical space of our library had a lot of potential and that a critical component in fostering a collaborative environment for students and staff was an updated look and arrangement. We already completed our first major unit in the library with the first ever Information Literacy Boot Camp, and the library is consistently booked for the first trimester. I think teachers are attracted to the new space and the way the design can be used to enhance the projects and inquiry they are already engaging in. I know that this space will continue to impact student learning this year. I am feeling so thrilled about our library renovation and thankful for all of the generous donations from parents, students, and community members that made it possible!

Before

After

Our main goals with the renovation project were:

New, lower shelving for increased visibility and a more open space.
Mobile work tables designed for individual and collaborative work.
Whiteboard tables for creative group work.
New flexible seating options.
Mobile device charging station.
Centrally located circulation desk.
New carpet and paint to create a less institutional feel.
Murals of Northwest students to foster a sense of community.
Salt water aquarium to bring elements from the natural world into our window-less library.

Although, there is always more we could achieve, we met all of my goals for the renovation and then some.

Our new teaching area is completely flexible, all tables and chairs are on wheels. The uniquely shaped tables offer many opportunities for small and large group work.
We moved the circulation desk to the center of the library which left us with a large space that had previously been off limits to students. We were able to create a reading nook and work area that include counter-height tables, soft seating, and a charging table for personal devices. This has quickly become a very popular section in the library.
A 66 gallon saltwater aquarium was donated to the library. Because our library has no windows, we really felt that we needed a way to bring the nature inside. The students absolutely love this addition and we have begun an Instagram contest to decide which literary characters the fish will be named after. One of our science teachers, Dan Hill and the ecology club are going to take most of the responsibility for the care and maintenance of our tank.
Our new, large photographs are quite popular. Students were either thrilled to be featured in them, or wondering how they can be in the future. :)
The new magazine boxes are a particular favorite of mine. They make it very easy for our students to locate and use the older issues of our magazines.