Libraries as Learning Environments, Everywhere
This week, we begin our exploration of Infinite Learning—an idea that captures how learning is evolving and how libraries can serve as dynamic hubs of knowledge, creativity, and connection. This module is made up of three sub-modules: Learning Everywhere, The Library as Classroom, and Professional Learning Experiences. You’ll select one of these areas to explore this week, and you’ll return to a second sub-module in the following module.
The world is changing rapidly, and learning is happening in more places and in more ways than ever before. In A New Culture of Learning, Douglas Thomas and John Seely Brown challenge us to rethink long-standing assumptions. Teaching someone to fish isn’t enough if the tools, techniques, or even the concept of fishing are constantly changing. In libraries, we face the same challenge: how do we stay true to our mission while adapting to new literacies, new technologies, and the shifting ways people learn?
As learning moves beyond the classroom and into everyday life, libraries have an incredible opportunity—and responsibility—to meet learners wherever they are. Whether that’s through mobile platforms, creative in-house programming, or professional development for ourselves and our colleagues, we can design spaces and services that foster curiosity, collaboration, and lifelong learning.
As I wrote in The Heart of Librarianship:
“Learning in the warehouse… has given way to collaborative spaces that facilitate lifelong learning and help our communities develop literacies that are necessary for successful functioning in today’s society.”
For this module, choose the sub-module that speaks to your interests or your current context. You might explore how learning is shifting beyond traditional environments, how your library can become a more intentional classroom, or how we, as professionals, can stay engaged and growing throughout our careers.
Wherever you start, this is the beginning of an ongoing conversation about learning—one we’ll continue next week, and likely throughout your entire practice.
Introduction to the Modules Lecture | Download Video Podcast Version
Things to Read:
Stephens, M. (2019). First part of the “Infinite Learning” chapter in The Heart of Librarianship, P. 119 – 128.
Follow your interest! Follow an idea. Choose your own adventure below….