The Demise of School Libraries

It is unfortunate that school libraries have become a major casualty of our countries economic state. Actual librarians are becoming a rarity in school libraries today. Sadly, school libraries aren't very high on the priority list when it comes down to budgets and funding.  In fact you would be hard pressed to find library para-professionals staffing school libraries these days.

Public libraries have had to step up and fill in for the lack of school libraries. Public libraries have to keep in constant contact with their local schools to figure out and ensure that they are meeting their needs. This only adds to the long list of responsibilities that our public librarians must fulfill and the every increasing role that public libraries are now playing in our local communities.

One of the major ways that Public libraries are fulfilling this, is by becoming joint-use facilities. This means partnering with close enough schools to take the place of an in house school library. Our local San Diego Central Library is an example of a joint-use facility. Although, it is a public library, it also serves are the library for the e3 Civic High Charter School located on the 6th and 7th floor of the library. e3 Civic high students come in daily to use the facility, for our resources and wi-fi access.

Libraries as Social Hubs

Today's library is no longer the ultra quiet place where no one talks, or the head librarian is constantly "shh-ing" everyone. Quite the contrary, the library is now a place of social interaction, a place to meet and collaborate with others, yet still remains a place to study and a place you can immerse yourself in the written word. The events that take place at your local library range from open mic nights, tutoring services, video gaming competitions, and chess tournaments, to name a few. Over the years I believe that libraries have tried very hard to re-invent their image, and for the most part, they have been successful.
Very recently I became the library clerk for the Teen Center at the new downtown San Diego Central Library. Granted, this new facility is not like most libraries I have worked for, but I think it is a good representation of what libraries are striving to be. The whole purpose of many of the weekly and monthly programs that we offer in the Teen Center are meant to bring teens in to socialize and collaborate with each other. We have a gaming room, where each day you will find at least 10-20 teens from different high schools in the downtown San Diego area challenging each other to a game of Super Mario Smash Bros Brawl on the Wii, or NFL Madden on the PS4. We also offer a program called "In the Mix" with DJ Dev, where one of our very own, brings in his DJ equipment and offers hands on training to teens who would like to learn the basics of mixing. This program however, has become more of a social hour, rather then learning time. Most of the teens that come in to the library that day come exclusively to listen to the music, relax and socialize amongst each other. Of course we don't mind this, because it brings in teens who would otherwise never set foot in to a library, and we count that as a small victory.
The library is not only a place for teens to come in and socialize, but the programs and events offered to adults also draw in crowds and offer opportunities for social interaction and a place to meet other like minded folks. Zumba classes are popular amongst adult patrons. And of course we have our monthly Book Club meetings, when adults get together with like minded readers and discuss a title they have all read.

The Demise of the School Library

The demise of school libraries is a topic that I am very familiar with. Having worked in an elementary school library for approximately eight years plus my time volunteering in the library when my children were younger, has given me a good vantage point from which to comment. Additionally, my children went to school in Virginia which is where I also worked for three months as a library assistant helping to open a new school library.

In the school district where I worked in Virginia, every elementary school (except for very small schools) has a full time credentialed library teacher with a Master’s degree in library science, AND a full time library assistant. The role of the librarian and the importance of the library in a child’s education are highly valued. However, upon moving to San Diego in 2006 I was very surprised to find that almost none of the school districts seemed to have full time, credentialed, librarians. Of course, a part of me was excited since I was now qualified for many of the school library positions that I researched. In fact, I was able to obtain my job as the library media specialist (equivalent to library technician) which listed the minimum educational requirement as a high school diploma. So it became very clear to me right away that when budget cuts had to be made, libraries were downsized in their role at the school—the position changed from a credential full-time job to a classified, part-time, hourly position. However, the demands and responsibilities haven’t necessarily been downsized.  After seven years in this role that I love, I firmly believe that the libraries play a critical role in supporting a child’s academic success.

 I believe that the trend toward the demise of school libraries needs to be reversed and districts need to move their school libraries into the 21^st century. The YouTube video, 21st Century School Libraries, in my post below outlines how libraries play a vital role in schools at all levels, from elementary through high school, and how successful  libraries have evolved to incorporate new technologies by providing a large number of computers for research and doing projects.

As stated in the video, the role of librarians for many people is seen as a boring job of just checking books in and out and shelving books. Having done this job for a while now, I know nothing could be further from the truth. There are so many facets to this job, it is impossible to do it effectively on a part time basis. Nor is it one that can just be delegated to parent volunteers. One recommendation from a SDCOE library administrator whom I spoke to is that, librarians need to generate positive PR that educates the parents, community, administrators, and the school board about what librarians do and how the school library supports the Common Core education needs of the teachers and students. I hope that we are able to do that in my district and elsewhere and reverse this trend.

21st Century School Libraries Video

The Digital Divide

The digital divide has become an issue of increasing concern, not only within libraries, but for major cities across the nation. Of course, this issue isn't limited to America, but the world is now more connected digitally then it ever was, and that dependency will only continue to increase. So, what is one way that we can keep connected to technology? Libraries. The library plays a huge role in helping bridge the digital divide, and will continue to do so well in to the future.

The digital divide is most apparent in what we typically categorize as under served communities. I have first hand experience in assisting students and patrons in library computer labs, and I know just how important this service is. An example of this, is the Logan Heights Branch Library, part of the San Diego Public Library system. The Logan Heights Branch serves a predominantly lower income community. Most patrons in this area do not have their own personal computers, let alone high-speed or wireless internet connection. Everyday, students and adults are lining up at the library doors waiting to use our computers and wifi. Since the option of low-cost wi-fi, like the plan in Philadelphia, has yet to be proposed in San Diego as a viable option for everyone, I predict that local libraries will continue to bridge the digital divide.

The Digital Divide

                The Digital Divide is described as a boundary line of those who have access to the internet, and those that don’t.  This divide in many cases is economic.  There are those who can’t afford to have internet at home, and this creates a divide between those people that are computer literate and those that are not.  Being computer literate opens the world up to so many such as education, jobs and a vast amount of information.

                “To understand the role that libraries play in offering access to new media literacy technologies, a few key concepts must be defined. First is the concept of the digital native. Those born around 1980, who have essentially grown up with technology, are known as digital natives.9 Digital natives are expected to have a base knowledge of technology and to be able to pick up and learn new technology quickly because of that base knowledge. Digital natives have been exposed to technology from a young age and are adept at using a variety of digital technologies. The suggestion is that young people can quickly learn to make use of the new media and technology available in a specific location.”(1)

When children attend schools that offer computer education, the child learns about computer literacy.   My son, who is in kindergarten, goes to a computer lab that teaches them the basics about computers.  The lab also teaches them fun sites that are built around leaning.  One such site is http://www.starfall.com/  this site teaches reading and basic computer use along with fun games.

 The child can then apply the information learned about computers at other access points for the internet.  Libraries, both at public and school play a big part in the education of computer literacy.  The Poway Branch of the County of San Diego Library system has 19 computers for public access. (Per Karen, at the reference desk)  These computers allow anyone with a library card to access the internet for any reason, that doesn't break a law.  The Poway library also offers computer classes of varying ranges to assist its patrons. 

Between the public and school libraries, I believe that educators are doing their best to end any digital divide in the population.  I believe it will be easier as the Millennials go through the school system, and grow up modern technology.

(1)Thorne-Wallington, Elizabeth. "Social Contexts Of New Media Literacy: Mapping Libraries." Information Technology & Libraries 32.4 (2013): 53-65. Academic Search Premier. Web. 17 Apr. 2014.

The Digital Divide

The digital divide is a critical issue in which people who do not have access to technology and internet services are not able to get access to information, education, jobs, and opportunities to better their lives. This is where libraries come in--libraries are the link to the digital world that equalizes the opportunities for the less fortunate. Luckily 99% of libraries provide internet access to their patrons. Additionally, many libraries offer free classes in technology instruction and internet use. 

The goal for our society should be to have digitally literate citizens. Since most children have grown up using computers, if not at home, then in school, libraries fill the gap by educating the older population for whom using a computer is not second nature. To be digitally literate means to be able to effectively use the devices (computers, tablets, smart phones, etc.), to have a basic ability to use software programs such as Word Perfect, to be able to conduct internet searches and know how to evaluate and use this information, to know basic internet safety guidelines and security software, and to be able to use social networking applications that are becoming increasingly essential for career networking as well as maintaining social ties.

However, libraries find it difficult to keep up with the demand for internet access required by the many households that cannot afford internet services. Many libraries have instituted time limits for computer use. Although libraries play an invaluable role in eliminating the digital divide, I think our government and business communities have a responsibility to provide affordable technology and service to all of our citizens.

Public Libraries & the Internet, “Digital Literacy & Public Libraries.” Information Policy & Access Center. Web. 17 April 2014. http://www.plinternetsurvey.org/analysis/public-libraries-and-digital-literacy

“Failing to Close the ‘Digital Divide’,” The New York Times. Web. 27 December 2012.                 http://www.nytimes.com/roomfordebate/2012/12/27/do-we-still-need-libraries/libraries-struggle-to-   close-the-digital-divide

Demise of School Libraries

The Demise of School Libraries

                It’s true that school libraries are feeling the strains of the economic down turn.  I have heard of many school librarians and media technicians’ talk of shortened hours and not enough time to get everything done.  There has been a strain on what books are purchased, and how to raise the funds to buy them.  In The LT140 Class we watched a video that was taped by Ranch Bernardo High School Media Technician Theresa Bonafede.(1)  In the video she describes her duties and her stress to get the job done.  She is not the only one to describe a trying situation.

                With all the doom and gloom over the financial stress of school libraries, one must wonder how they will survive.  There is good news from a reputable source.  The American Library Association, in its publication American Libraries, states that libraries will have greater access to materials for students, and be more cost effective. (2.) How will they do this?  They will ask for the money if need be, from the government and from the public.  The School libraries know that they need the funds to make it happen.“Despite widespread budget cuts, many schools, districts, and states are making a commitment to school library programs, acknowledging that strides in public education cannot be successful without a fully staffed and funded school library program.”(3)

School librarians are also making the libraries successful for their students.  They are leaning inventive ways of getting the information and materials to the students.  “School librarians are assuming a leadership role in navigating a new frontier as student access to information continues beyond the school day in what is often called digital learning, blended learning, extended learning, expanded learning, or 24/7 learning. The role of the school librarian is to find new tools and activities, tether them back to institutional and curricular needs, and guide instructional opportunities for anytime-anywhere learning that will accompany students beyond the school library program.”(4)

So, when push gets to shove, the job will get done…somehow.

(1)  https://learn.palomar.edu/bbcswebdav/pid-1066209-dt-content-rid-6275071_1/xid-6275071_1

(2) "The State of America's Libraries." Americanlibrariesmagazine.org Apr. 2014: 1-79. Web. 14 Apr.  Pg. 29.

2014. <http://viewer.zmags.com/publication/eca3ba38#/eca3ba38/1>.

(3) "The State of America's Libraries." Pg. 30

(4) "The State of America's Libraries." Pg .30

Libraries in the digital Age

                “Libraries have long played an essential role in containing, preserving, and sharing information.” ([i])  Libraries still do the work, but how they do it has changed with the advancement with technology.   “Two main goals have driven the use of technology: better serving the needs of the library’s community and streamlining the workflow of the staff.”[ii]  Libraries are publicly funded establishments.  To show the public that they deserve the funds, they must provide the best service, at the least amount of cost. 

                Teens are the largest group of people that use the library. ([iii]) These are the young adults, age 16-17, that do research for school.  These students are used to getting information fast off of the internet.  The problem is that information from the internet is not always accurate.  Libraries provide access to information that is from academic source, and can be verified.  Helping the student find the most accurate information, the quickest, provides them with the best service.  If the student is helped quickly, they are most apt to return. This also goes for adults…the better the service, the more likely to return.  They are also more likely to vote for funding if they find the service was worth it.

                To provide the service that the library patrons desire, its staff need to be educated on the newest technology, and best way to serve its patrons.  With the streamlining of the library staff, many need to be educated on many aspects of working the library.  The library staff needs to be on top of the most up to date technology.  Staff must be educated on how to store, and access the information using the latest technology.

                My Friend Chris told me that he thought libraries were boring and slow moving.  I think that they are just the opposite.  They are a place where things happen quickly, whether they are helping people or keeping up with technology.

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[i] Burke, John. Neal-Schuman Library Technology Companion: A Basic Guide for Library Staff. N.p.: n.p., n.d. Print.

[ii] Burke

[iii] Rainie, Lee. "Millennials and Libraries." Pewinternet.org. Pew Reasearch Center, 9 Apr. 2014. Web. 16 Apr. 2014.

Libraries as Social Hubs

Libraries play a vital role in the community as social hubs for everyone from toddlers and children attending story time to senior citizens, there is something for everyone. It is a great way to make new friends, learn a new skill, get tutoring, join a club, and enjoy a music program or an art exhibit.  The Encinitas Branch Library even boasts two open mic programs where aspiring writers and musicians share their work. In reviewing the numerous programs at the various San Diego libraries, I am astonished at the variety of programs offered. And the best and most amazing part is that most of these programs are FREE!

Libraries have become vibrant learning and social centers. “Libraries in the Internet age have morphed from somber institutions into social hubs for job seekers, small business owners and local residents looking for advice, help or a free meeting place.”  Reuters (6/23/2011)

Some public and university libraries have coffee shops located in the library or right outside. The Westerville Public Library in Ohio opened its coffee shop initially as a service to patrons but often makes a profit. Associates: The Electronic Library Support Staff Journal, 11/2007 .  I love the idea of being able to have a cup of coffee and a snack after I’ve checked out my books. It’s a great service for book clubs and other groups that hold meetings in the community rooms.

With the increasing role of libraries as social hubs for all residents in the community, it is vital that we keep our libraries funded and open seven days a week. I was encouraged to learn that San Diego Mayor, Kevin Faulconer has proposed increasing hours at all city branches by four hours a week and five hours a week at the central branch. KPBS 4/14/2014  This is welcome news for all, let’s hope it passes.

Libraries as a Social Hub

                                Libraries are the center of their community.  They are a place of information and activities.  The Poway Library is a good example of a place for the community.  Besides the access to information and books, they provide a place for people to gather.  The Poway Library has reading times for both toddlers and pre-schoolers ,social classes for teenagers, science classes, craft classes, exercise classes, and citizenship classes.  The schedule is busy.  When visiting the library, you can feel that it is alive.  The Poway Library supports its community’s needs.

                There are those who would like to end public funding for libraries.  “On April 1, House Budget Committee chair Paul Ryan (R-WI) released his budget proposal for the fiscal year 2015. It would cut five trillion dollars from federal balance sheets in the next decade by making significant cuts to spending on initiatives like Medicare and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, more commonly known as food stamps. Among librarians, though, the most controversial cost-saving measure proposed in the Ryan budget might be its elimination of the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) entirely, cutting millions in grants to libraries around the country.”(1)

                Libraries are essential to society.  That is what a Pew survey has found.  “Some 90% of Americans ages 16 and older said that the closing of their local public library would have an impact on their community, with 63% saying it would have a “major” impact. Asked about the personal impact of a public library closing, two-thirds (67%) of Americans said it would affect them and their families, including 29% who said it would have a major impact.” (2)

                I believe that cutting funding to libraries would have a negative impact on society.

 1.Chant, Ian. "Ryan’s Proposed 2015 Budget Would Eliminate IMLS." Library Journal. Media Source Inc, 3 Apr. 2014. Web. 16 Apr. 2014. <http%3A%2F%2Flj.libraryjournal.com%2F2014%2F04%2Flegislation%2Fryans-proposed-2015-budget-would-eliminate-imls%2F>.

2. Zickuhr, Kathryn, Lee Rainie, Kristen Purcel, and Maeve Duggan. "How Americans Value Public Libraries in Their Communities." Pewinternet.org. Pew Research Center, 11 Dec. 2013. Web. 16 Apr. 2014.

Karin's Post-The Demise of School Libraries

     It is very disheartening to read and hear of the demise of school libraries.  With the growing age of digital use and the need for its access especially among lower socioeconomic communities, it is hard to believe that school libraries are would be a target of cutbacks and downsizing.  Proposals of alleviating school librarians and putting the responsibility of library information and access on teachers and volunteers is not an easy answer.  Teachers are already overloaded.  With the implementation of common core and the increase in class size, teachers are at their maximum, working hours above and beyond their paid salaries.  Working in an elementary school and being married to a fourth grade teacher, I am aware of the extensive hours put in beyond the typical paid eight hour day.  To add the duties of library skills and checkout requires more than the expected job description of a teacher.  Also, assuming that volunteers can pick up the slack too is an unreliable answer.  A lot of parents must work to support their households and do not have the time to volunteer at schools.  With the support of school administration, we must keep the staff in school libraries in motion as explained in the website, AlterNet, Is the End of the School Library Upon Us?  Budget Cuts Hit Librarians Where it Hurts.  Keeping school libraries open and staffed offers students a place where information, assistance, and contact to the digital world are accessible for their needs.  How can we expect our youth to grow and learn if we limit their resources?  Limiting availability to all of the libraries resources is like asking children to limit reading.  School libraries set the precedence for public library use and all of its services.  A keen appreciation and understanding of the services offered in a library starts in a child's school library.
   

Libraries in the Digital Age

The role of technology in libraries today has expanded exponentially since I was a child and first remember using the library: from the elimination of the old card catalog to switch to computerized databases and circulation systems, then the advent of the internet and the need to offer access to it, and most recently the increasing use of eBooks and ereaders and the role of libraries in offering these technologies to patrons. This is only the tip of the iceberg too. Now libraries have their own websites that offer the invaluable tool of being able to search for books and materials, and place holds on these items, from anywhere that you have internet access.Through this class I have learned even more about the expanding role of the internet in promoting libraries. Many libraries now have their own Facebook pages that promote events and programs, offer digital tips and advice, and give book reviews and recommendations. For example the Escondido Public Library has a fantastic Facebook page. I loved the picture of their teen reading area mural (below). I also learned that they have a dedicated Digital Services Librarian. There is even a Digital Bookmobile that travels to the different library branches to help patrons learn how to search for and download eBooks--that is so cool.

Although print books still dominate, in the digital age eBook reading has risen. According to the Pew Research Center  (1/16/2014), “28% of American adults ages 18 and older read an e-book in the past year, up from 17% in 2011;” and “50% of adults now own either a tablet computer or an e-reader.”

The need for libraries to keep up with the demand for digital services and tools is a must. Additionally, the role of the librarian and the library staff have to expand and grow to include training and knowledge of all the digital services provided. “Librarians in this digital age provide access, guidance and training to both physical and electronic materials housed onsite, and in online archives while remaining on the leading-edge of the vast digital databases available.” (TeachThought: "The Changing Landscape for Libraries & Librarians in the Digital Age")

Karin's Post-Libraries in the Digital Age

     Keeping abreast with the changing times in our society is a big part of libraries goals.  With an age of profound digital use, the library setting feels the pressure and need to offer patrons accessibility to electronic resources as well as internet connection and information.  As a result, libraries' websites have become an important feature for patrons linking them to services that are offered.  For example, the Temecula Library offers  family programs  for its patrons that are posted on their website.  With this direct information, patrons may view this and other programs that the library offers.  This connection to the community helps build a relationship between the two.  Along with library websites is the increase of electronic resources.  As stated in the Pew Internet & American Life Project website, it explains how a large percentage of Americans own tablets or e-readers, and libraries are providing patrons with the resources to accommodate them.  This also involves the constant task of improving the manner of which a patron may access electronic resources as explained in the textbook, Neal-Schuman Library Technology Companion.  There must be multiple entry points so patrons may locate databases, electronic reference collections, and periodical indexes. Keeping up with the digital age has been a great task for libraries who must participate in order to accommodate the community for which they exist.

     

Karin's Post-Libraries at Social Hubs

     When the library is used or looked at like a "social hub," it appears to be two-fold.  Some look at the library as a place to collect information while in the presence of other people, e.g. talking to library personnel or other patrons visiting the library, or using their social media internet access to connect to others via facebook, email, twitter, or skype to name a few.  Social networking as explained in Chapter 11 of Neal-Schuman Library Technology Companion by John Burke states that people bond through social networking which is done more often through online social media.  The library offers a place to accomplish this connection within our society by supplying free internet service.  For some libraries their focus is to transform reading areas into gathering places for people to gain media information as well as connect with society through digital access. The Helsinki Central Library is progressing toward this mind set. Even in college libraries the "social hub" is prevalent.   Emory University has a blog page that connects students and offers a social link among students. The age of digital socialization is becoming an important place in our libraries many of which are trying to conform to this change.

The demise of School Libraries

“School libraries can be the heart of the every school,”  this opening line of the Why School Libraries Matter video and it is music to my ears.   In this video the narrators mentions that the library can be a “safe haven for students” and “provide access to resources” and my response?  Yes!  So true, yet so often overlooked.  Unfortunately, school libraries have faced and are facing budget concerns that affect the hours of the school Librarian or Library Technician and affect the availability of reading material made available to students, either for school research projects or for pleasure reading.  In my own experience, the middle school library where I work, I don’t have a budget.  If I want to buy books for students, I better start raising money.  And I do, through book fairs and community fundraisers, such as partnering with a local restaurant for the school to receive a portion of the day’s sales.  Through these fundraisers I’m able to purchase non-fiction books that support the new Common Core Standards and books by the latest popular author that the student’s want to read—which encourages reading and students who read perform better all-around academically (a known fact).  My school library also just got new and faster computers (the students are very happy) for students to do research and to type their papers—not all students have computers at home.  But cut-backs to affect the school library—does this mean our demise is just around the corner?  Libraries, public and school, are often forced to remind their community of how important their role is in the community and how we support individuals in their quest for information and resources.  

If you want to view the video I mention above here is the link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gU7x-25NXdE