Defining the True Problems

So how do you get there?  How do you get down to the roots so you can actually try to fix things?

I started with a bit of learning, research, and collaboration.  My TL course had us focus on the design process, the role of makerspace, and collaborative learning spaces.  We brainstormed ways to use and improve our library.  We collaboratively came up with a list of questions to ask staff and students when seeking input for a possible library redesign.  Seven questions were chosen from the list to create a survey.  Here’s mine.  The results of the survey were analyzed to determine three common ideas.  These ideas were reframed in a positive light on how to improve the library for the betterment of the students, in order to increase your chance of buy-in and funding from administration.

• Collaborative space with more diverse programming will engage a wider audience by appealing to more interests.  It will create a place to gather, share, and connect, and enhance social and emotional development.
• A warm, inviting place with comfortable seating will encourage readers and makers to spend time in the facility.  A safe and trusted environment provides students with the best opportunity to learn and grow.
• A larger collection.  Feedback shows that our current collection is cherished but that it has some gaps and is aging.  More books and resources to increase learning opportunities are always on request by students, teachers, and support staff.

From the points above, a design challenge statement was created:

Redesign a library that is warm and inviting, with comfortable seating that will encourage readers and users to spend time in the facility, incorporates collaborative space with diverse programming for everyone, and houses a large collection for the students and staff of the school.