In my observations in various school libraries in Cache Valley, I've noticed a pretty big disconnect between the atmosphere of elementary school libraries and secondary school libraries. For example, many elementary school libraries are visually stimulating, comfy, and all around fun places to be:
But why can't we have both? Studies have shown that students are more likely to hang out in libraries that they feel comfortable in, and as more and more students use the library as a place to hang out, circulation goes up. If we can get more books into the hands of our students by making the environment of our libraries more comfortable and colorful, shouldn't that be one of our top priorities?
I think it should. I would love to have a colorful, modern library full of bean bags and comfy couches. And I would love a library that is clean and organized, where anyone can find exactly what they are looking for. And I think the students would love it too!
Today we're talking about lifelong learning. Lifelong learning is the pursuit of knowledge throughout your life. It takes a lot of self-motivation to be a lifelong learner, which can be hard, but it's worth it! After all, the more you know, the more you grow!
Lori Reed says that these are the 7 1/2 habits of lifelong learners:
1. Begin with the end in mind. (I'm pretty good at this one. I like to make an outline and have a concrete idea of what the end product will look like before I begin on a project of any kind.)
2. Accept responsibility for your own learning. (This one is a little harder for me. As a college student, I learn a lot every day, but I tend to place the responsibility for my learning on my professors. If I were more responsible for my own learning, I would be more likely to go above and beyond with my learning, and pursue avenues of thought that are interesting to me, regardless of whether or not they are included in the course.)
3. View problems as challenges. (Again, this is not one of my strong suits. I get frustrated with challenges, and see them as roadblocks rather than a way for me to better myself. Something to work on!)
4. Have confidence in yourself as a competent, effective learner. (My mom always said, "If you think you can or you think you can't, you're right." It's so true. If you believe in your abilities, you will be able to accomplish whatever you put your mind to!)
5. Create your own learning toolbox (There are so many ways to learn, and the more ways you can find, the more you will be able to learn!)
6. Use technology to your advantage (I'm pretty good at this one. If I don't know the answer to something, someone on the internet usually does, and I can find them!)
7. Teach/mentor others (This is my favorite one. I am currently on my way to getting a teaching license, and I truly believe that teaching is the best way to learn.)
7 1/2. Play! (Learning doesn't have to be hard work. The best kind of learning happens when you're having so much fun, you don't even realize learning is occurring. Learn what you love!)
All of the best people are lifelong learners, including presidents of the United States. Here's former president Bill Clinton talking about his experiences being a lifelong learner:
