Written by
Ava Akbarian
Modern school libraries for students are more than a place to borrow books. School libraries provide a safe place for students to socialise, collaborate, learn, create or relax.
School libraries for students provide a place for social engagement.
The modern school library hosts many social activities including events, extracurricular clubs and gatherings. Studies revealed many students use the school library for ‘quiet socialising and game playing’.
Many independent school libraries are undergoing modern refurbishments to facilitate student socialisation.
School libraries for students also foster unique social activities. For example, chatting quietly with friends about school, assignments or their favourite book is something that they may not necessarily do outside of the school library.
The school library for students is usually one of the only parts of the school that is not a classroom, playground or sports field.
Students can undergo a number of activities in a quiet and more private space.
The library is a great way for more shy or reserved kids to make friends in a smaller, more familiar and safe environment. The school library also provides students with a relaxing place to spend their time on very hot or rainy days.
The school library also provides students with a sense of belonging.
Sense of belonging refers to students’ feelings of being accepted and valued by their peers and by others at school. It reflects the extent to which students feel personally accepted, respected, included, and supported by others at school. NSW Department of Education, https://education.nsw.gov.au/student-wellbeing/tell-them-from-me/accessing-and-using-tell-them-from-me-data/tell-them-from-me-measures/-sense-of-belonging-.
Sense of belonging refers to students’ feelings of being accepted and valued by their peers and by others at school. It reflects the extent to which students feel personally accepted, respected, included, and supported by others at school.
NSW Department of Education, https://education.nsw.gov.au/student-wellbeing/tell-them-from-me/accessing-and-using-tell-them-from-me-data/tell-them-from-me-measures/-sense-of-belonging-.
Research shows that a student ‘s sense of belonging is linked to academic success and improved outcomes.
The school library also facilitates reading for students by providing a space for quiet reading or access to an abundance of books and materials.
The school library for students is central to teaching and learning.
Historically, the importance of the school library for students has always focused on knowledge and research,
Students can connect with teachers or librarians to ask questions and access resources physically or online. Students can ask librarians about different ways to research a project. This is also a great opportunity for students who may be having trouble with access to resources at home.
Not only is the school library a great way for students to share knowledge amongst each other, but it provides a productive space for students to complete shared projects.
Many students have extracurricular activities, tutoring or programs after school. Alternatively, students may have a busy home or live far from the school. The school library allows students to meet and complete group projects in a quiet and comfortable space for all group members.
Students can also use the space to study after school together, share notes or teach a concept during recess, lunch or study periods.
The school library for students is a vital space to form a sense of connectedness providing a unified school culture.
Many modern school libraries in independent schools host programs and events for students to attend. The modern use of the school library creates a unified school culture, sense of belonging and connectedness among students.
“They are also central places in our high rise city school for students and staff to socialise and take part in the vast number of games and activities offered. Walk by at the right moment and you’ll find students fashioning gloves from yarn in the knitting club, celebrating diverse cultures at the international festival, and drafting short stories under the tutelage of visiting authors. It is a much-loved and used space by students, who see them as places of discovery and learning.”
“They are also central places in our high rise city school for students and staff to socialise and take part in the vast number of games and activities offered. Walk by at the right moment and you’ll find students fashioning gloves from yarn in the knitting club, celebrating diverse cultures at the international festival, and drafting short stories under the tutelage of visiting authors.
It is a much-loved and used space by students, who see them as places of discovery and learning.”
About
Ava works as a Digital Writer for School Choice Magazine as well as a a contributor to the annual ‘Choosing a School Magazine’.