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Old 09-19-2012, 09:52 AM   #7
BWinmill
Nameless Being
 
Elementary school libraries have multiple functions and it is best to talk to teachers directly about their needs.

First and foremost, school libraries need to be designed around books. Students will be signing out books for independent reading, and I doubt that all of the technology in the world is going to change that any time soon (due to cost and distractions).

Even though most of those books will be stories and information books, your library will probably need a section set aside for classroom resources. These are books that students may need to do research projects.

And yes, ensure that you have computers in there. These computers should be able to provide locally hosted research materials that have been selected based upon your school's literacy levels. Have a way to manage subscriptions for specialized resources as well.

The library will need three types of work areas. Tables for the older grades, plenty of floor space (hard, not carpeted) for the younger grades, and an area for read-alouds. There should also be plenty of nooks for kids to tuck into while reading independently.

Anyhow, those are just a few ideas.
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