New LMC Adds Flexibility to Learning
An overlook of the new chairs and desks added to the library.
New LMC Adds Flexibility to LearningYou may have seen the changes to the Library Media Center this year, but planning started long before
Library Media Specialist Mrs. Kelly Zatorsky and Principal Dr. Adam Rosen invited the PTA executive board, teachers, and student council members to provide ideas and jump start the planning for the new design. They wanted the new library to be flexible and have an easily adjustable layout in order to accommodate big classes and gatherings.
Throughout the year, Mrs. Zatorsky worked with various staff members and vendors to research and choose the best furniture and layout for the students and teachers. The process produced ideas like tripod tables, which are great for both test taking and group work because they can be arranged into lines, squares, sets of pairs, or even bigger circles. Everyone also agreed on lightweight, stable chairs which go great with the tables.
A front look of the library after its makeover.
The goal of renovating the library was to make it useful to all teachers and students, even those whose primary interest might not be reading. “I wanted to make the library like the hub of the school,” said Mrs. Zatorsky.
These ideas are great, but there was still the problem of where to get all the money. In order to raise money, there was a “Love our Library” fundraiser last year. They asked the parents for financial support to make the changes to the LMC. So far, $50,000 have been spent. Many people feel it was totally worth it.
Between January and June, shelves of books were relocated to create a more open space for people to enjoy.
The first step was redoing the carpet, which was not an easy job. The 200 boxes of books and 22 carts had to be packed up and moved. Then the old carpet was ripped up and a new, fresh carpet was put in it’s place.
A brand new smart board was also added. It is lighted from behind the screen so there is no projector and no glare. Also bought were 70 regular chairs, 24 tripod desks, and with 25 Learn 2 Chairs.” Learn 2 Chairs are the chairs with wheels, a lap desk, and a shelf under the seat to put binders.
Lastly, after all the books were put back into the library, they were relabeled. Now the books are clearly organized by genre as well as author.
Dr. Rosen thinks the changes are great, “I hope that every one loves the vibrant and welcoming feel that the new LMC provides.” A new couch two comfy chairs, and a coffee table have arrived in the library.
Lots of students are enjoy the changes. For example, seventh graders Miles Mkacc, Jack Rosier, and Max Tanksley have all said great things about the library. The three boys agreed that they like the new openness of the library and how it creates a nice reading environment. A special favorite among students are the new Learn 2 Chairs and Jack says, “I like all the new chairs, especially the ones with the wheels, and a place to put binders. And how you can adjust the seating.”