4)+Physical+and+On-line+Libraries

__ Physical and On-line Libraries __

Our students, as digital natives, have grown up surrounded by technology. They expect to have access to information at all times. In order to meet these expectations, teacher-librarians need to develop their on-line libraries as well as their physical libraries. Teacher-librarians address issues such as filters and privacy to enable access to information and to foster safe learning environments. The physical library should house all the traditional aspects of a library while accommodating new technology. Books and other resources are kept up to date and prominently displayed to encourage circulation. Tables are available for students to work on projects and computers are available for completing assignments and conducting research. The computers also aid in minimizing the digital divide between students who have access to computers at home and those that do not. Teaching tools such as SmartBoards, digital cameras, and LCD projectors and laptops need to also be in the library to facilitate teaching and engage students. The physical space of the library at my school has many of these features including LCD projectors and digital cameras. However, having computers for only half the class often means careful planning is needed to ensure that all students have equal access. Lessons are constructed to include the use of print and digital resources. An interesting set of three questions was posted by David Warlick on his blog “[|2¢ Worth: Teaching & Learning in the new information landscapes].”  He questioned what aspects people would change about their school libraries. Most comments supported adding technology without losing many of the traditional components of the library similar to my own personal opinions.

The virtual library is a new venue for teacher-librarians. “The library website represents the library program. It offers guidance and instruction while it fosters independent learning. It models careful selection. It offers valuable public service and can redefine ‘community.’ The site supports reading, learning, and the building of knowledge.” (Valenza, 2007) Having the library catalogue online and links to websites benefits students and expands the library beyond its four walls. Teacher-librarians can use websites, wikis, and blogs to support student learning. For instance, in my school a wiki was created for the grade 8 science project on climate change. It contains links to pertinent websites and a listing of books and magazine articles that can be accessed in the school library. Students are able to post their questions and discuss aspects of the project on the wiki, along with their teachers and teacher-librarian.

One issue that teacher-librarians need to address in both the physical and on-line library is privacy. It is important to remember that students have a right to privacy with regards to accessing information online and in print form. They also need to be made aware of how to be safe online by protecting their privacy. A second issue is filters. School filters are required by provincial governments but teacher-librarians should be aware of the impact that filters have and ensure that they are as least restrictive as possible. Students are taught digital citizenship by teacher-librarians in which they learn what their rights and responsibilities are on-line. “How does one learn to use something effectively and safely without being able to see and experience actual examples and Web sites?” (Abram, 2007)