Broadening perspectives on the learning process in public libraries

Abstract

Although research projects have recently been carried out to investigate learning and libraries, much of the work has focused on trying to assess the outcomes and impacts of learning experiences. It is clear from a project recently conducted by the Centre for Information Research (CIRT) that the learning process itself is often not fully understood in relation to libraries. There is little agreement about what the role of the public library should be at each stage of the learning process and it is acknowledged that a learner's experience may differ considerably depending on the area they live in, the library they use and the member of staff they encounter on a particular visit. As public libraries move outside their comfort zone and extend their services to learners, there are bound to be difficulties to overcome. The processes of reflection, generalisation and, to some extent, guiding learners and evaluating learning experiences are not well understood or supported in libraries. Many staff lack the training, confidence and time to support learners in these important activities. Extending the role of the library is likely to require support from those with greater experience and expertise in supporting learners at all stages of the learning process.