Editorial
School Library Monthly/Volume XXVI, Number 5/January 2010
A Look into the Future Must Be Now
By Deborah D. Levitov
A Five-Magazine Joint Issue
Five school library magazines editors have collaborated to publish a common theme issue for January 2010. Each magazine focuses on aspects of the theme "Envision the Future of School Librarianship:"
Knowledge Quest: Future of Authority
Library Media Connection: Future of Primary Learners
School Library Journal: Future of Reading
School Library Monthly: Future of Instruction
Teacher Librarian: Future of Excellence in Curriculum
Through this collaboration the editors hope to provide a well-balanced look into the future for school librarians.
—Debbie Abilock, Gail Dickinson, Brian Kenney, Deb Levitov, David Loertscher
At the Treasure Mountain Research Forum #15, held in Charlotte, North Carolina, in November, Ross Todd discussed how educators can make school a worthwhile place for students. He described school as a place that is socially and intellectually exciting for students—making them part of the conversation. Ross suggests that to realize this learning environment we must re-create the school library from the "heart" or the "hub" scenario of place to a unique learning environment… a learning commons that moves beyond a specific location.
Ross describes this learning commons as an entity that removes barriers and provides a safe haven for using diverse and conflicting sources, while providing access to quality and rich information—all of which leads to deep learning. This new school library facilitates networked learning, enables inquiry and the building of knowledge, and provides for inspiration and creativity.
This issue of SLM examines instructional practices that meet the needs of learners today. How are school libraries being re-created to meet these needs? What is the role of the school librarian in this new environment? How does it speak to all stakeholders as they make decisions for the future? The answers will shape the destiny of the school library and the profession.