Everyone’s Favorite Excuse I’ve had the honor and privilege of sharing with hundreds of librarians and educators about our makerspace. Unfortunately, I see many educators hold back on starting a makerspace because of funds. I’m always hearing excuses like: “I’d… Read More ›
While makerspace leaders/librarians remain the most important aspect of fostering a successful, inquiry-rich maker culture, what role does the aesthetics play in the space? Construction and architectural firms, such as Haworth, assert that there are ways to literally build a… Read More ›
When I listened to others talk about their makerspaces they were always so enthusiastic about what they were doing. All I kept thinking was where is the curriculum connection and how am I going to convince my stakeholders that this… Read More ›
Active Learning Spaces In the book Get Active: Reimagining Learning Spaces for Student Success, the authors identify six types of active learning spaces that are essential for creating an engaging learning environment for students. While this research (and this book)… Read More ›
As 2016 dawns, I am experiencing a new library for my students. Yes, the books and technology are still the same, but the goals are different. This year, I will be tackling new library development projects with a renewed vigor…. Read More ›
To kick off the 2016 Learning Commons features, I am thrilled to introduce Debbie Thompson at Dousman Elementary in Wisconsin, who is graciously giving us a peek into her Library Media Center. In our interview, she reflects on how her… Read More ›
The lights are dimmed as meditative nature sounds and gentle music drift through the air. I instruct all students to stand at the front of their mats, exhale and fold forward, symbolically shaking all stressful thoughts from their heads to… Read More ›
I keep a running list of things I never thought I’d say as a Library Media Specialist: quit eating the grass in your pocket; why are you smelling the book; no you can’t read better hanging your head upside down… Read More ›
About three years ago, at eight months pregnant, I was sitting with my student book club at a table that looked a bit like this. I did not have cushions on my benches, but you get the idea. When all… Read More ›
There’s so many amazing books coming out now related to starting a school makerspace, and many of them are fantastic. But for this post, I want to take a look back and focus on the five books that had the biggest… Read More ›