Infinite Learning: Learning Everywhere

Stephens (n.d.) introduces the concept of learning everywhere as a concept that emphasizes and “[promotes] creativity as a way to learn.” Learning does not always have to be through academics, and it can take different forms and shapes. For example, it can happen when I am at home, learning how to cook a new dish I found in a cookbook, or while I am attending a programming event at the library. When applying learning everywhere to library spaces, I thought of an event that I recently attended where I got to make a wreath out of fabric and wires. I viewed this simply as having fun but when I thought about everything I did during the event, I realized that I was learning. I messed up a couple of times but as the event continued, I started learning and improving. When the event began, I received paper instructions to help guide me through the craft. Every time I needed help, I would ask the librarian for help, and she would help me by showing me how to attach the zip ties to the frame and how to glue the ornaments to the completed wreath. Soon, I was a professional and I helped others complete the project.  

Recently at work, the children’s librarian asked part-time staff if we could adopt an aisle in the children’s area, select a theme, and decorate the isle around the theme we selected. When it came time to design the area, I wanted to create something fun that the younger generation would understand and connect with. I then thought about the library emoji concept, introduced in last week’s module and discussed in this week’s module. Stephens (2016) describes the library emoji as creating a language through emojis, “a language that is globally understood” (p.22). I decided to go with a gingerbread theme and transform a short popular phrase from the gingerbread nursery rhyme into emojis. With the blessing from the children’s librarian, the kids who could decode the emoji storyline would get a prize. My intention with this added detail is to better connect with children, using one of the most popular methods of communication. 

Reflecting on the program that I attended and the project that I am currently doing at work, I realized that libraries have changed so much over the centuries because libraries used to be institutions dedicated to academic learning and books. Now, it serves added purposes, including providing unrestricted access to public services, technology, Wi-Fi, etc. Stephens (2014) argues that the changes are due to the evolving needs of patrons, which has continued to accelerate because patrons are constantly interacting with modern technology and innovations (p.8). As librarians, we need to understand and embrace these changes to design programs and services that appeal to our users. This means the services and programs we create must continuously change to remain relevant to our communities. Modern libraries host a variety of programs and services for all age groups to help educate communities in a fun way while fostering stronger long-lasting connections between themselves and the community. Greenwalt (2016) asserts that as librarians “our services aren’t fixed points—they’re vectors, constantly moving our organizations and patrons in a specific direction” (para. 15). These changes are integral in ensuring that libraries stay a useful community hub that patrons continue to rely on for their information needs. 

References

Greenwalt, R. T. (2013). Embracing the long game. Public Libraries Online. https://publiclibrariesonline.org/2013/02/embracing/