Educational Specifications

Educational Specifications for the New Library Media Center

When designing a new Library Media center it is important to consider the different uses the space will have to accommodate.

First there will need to be a circulation desk with two stations and the technology to check books in and out of the OPAC system. Ideally this circulation desk will be located near the entrance/exit. This will make coming and going from the library most efficient because as soon as a student enters he or she can drop off books to return and it will be the last stop when they leave the LMC to check books out. While students are in the library, hopefully a staff member can be stationed at the circulation desk if students need help or to check out a book.
Staff office space should be located adjacent to the circulation desk. This is a space for LMS staff to meet, plan, and attend to administrative responsibilities. This area should have as many desks/computer workstations as there are staff members. This is where items such as a laminator, poster maker, and die-cut machine might be stored and used. This area should be network and internet connected, and also have at least two phone lines. * There should be a provision for extra outlets and network hubs if more computers need to be added later if the staff grows.
Several (at least three) information search stations should be located near the entrance to the LMC, perhaps across from the circulation desk, where students can access information (OPAC, internet, databases, email, etc) as soon as they enter the LMC and then determine where to go next. (These information stations may not be necessary in an elementary school while a greater number would be needed in a high school or university library) This addresses standards that refer to accessing information. * There should be a provision for extra outlets and network hubs if more computers need to be added later.
Two computer labs/instructional areas each containing a class set of computers, an LCD projector and screen mounted so that students can view the screen as they sit and work at the computers. This will be very effective in modeling search methods for students and presenting information to the whole group. (In a university library a computer lab such as this may be used more for students doing independent work because presentations or instruction is more likely to take place in a smart classroom) This specification pertains to standards that address the use of technology, the writing process, media literacy, creating products, collaborating with others, locating and using appropriate sources to answer questions. . * There should be a provision for extra outlets and network hubs if more computers need to be added later.
Instructional Area consisting of tables that can be arranged so that students can work in small groups or as a larger group in a seminar format. This area can also serve as a place for book talks, presentations, visiting speakers, and for classes to use print materials such as biography, or reference books.
Independent Reading area consisting of upholstered chairs or sofas where students can read or write on their own. This section might be positioned near the periodicals or the fiction section. (In an elementary school this area may consist of pillows or small benches where students might sit to listen to stories or watch a presentation or film. In a high school or university library this area might be expanded to be larger.) This area addresses standards regarding independent reading for pleasure and as a way to expand one’s view of the world.
Small group work rooms (two) that are enclosed, contain a computer station, where up to eight people could work quietly on making a movie, a group project, or student/teacher conference for example. (These kinds of rooms may not be necessary in an elementary school while more than two may be needed in high school and university libraries.) . * There should be a provision for extra outlets and network hubs if more computers need to be added later or if other kinds of technologies are added to these rooms.

* For all computer stations in the new LMC there should be provisions made for wiring to come down from the ceiling or up from the floor and enclosed in hubs to make access organized and safe. This way wires will not need to be run across the floor creating a safety hazard. These electrical hubs should have extra space to accommodate for growth.