The concept of a virtual library is transforming traditional school libraries into dynamic learning hubs that emphasize collaboration, accessibility, and the integration of technology.
References
Brooks-Kirkland, A. (2009, Spring). The school library learning commons: Are we "virtually" there? School Libraries in Canada - CASL, 27(2), 28-30.
Brooks-Kirkland, A. (2009, Fall). The virtual library as a learning hub. School Libraries in Canada - CASL, 27(3), 43-45.
Virtual Library Blueprint
Creation/Maintenance
Accessible 24/7 365
On all devices that
have a web browser
Kept up to date through
collaboration with the
school community aligned
with learning goals
Customized through input
from collaboration with
Teachers, Staff, Students,
community, other TL’s in the board
Collaboratively built
Multiple Uses
Tools
Copyright friendly
pictures/music/videos
Tools to help with
current assignments
to build and edit
student content
through web 2.0
such as bitstrips
Online Learning
Communicate with others
in the virtual library
through Interactive web
2.0 technologies such as
blogs, wikis, social
bookmarking for
collaborative learning
Information Gathering
Addresses academic
dishonesty and
copyright with
student friendly
text and graphics
Provide clear path
to the best
information to
avoid satisficing
for online sources
Searches to find
items in the physical
library
Easy to Follow Web Design
Functional
Links to stay within
the library website,
not to external sites
Information searches,
not publisher searches
Password protected
information is organized
into one portal
Organized to best
suit students
More than content
management, but tools,
visuals, applications
Engaging
Not just text, but visuals!
Any text is student friendly
