Chapter 1— Service:

Redefining and Reinventing Library Spaces

Harlan (2018) writes "Learning commons offer a flexible space that can easily be reconfigured for use as a performance space, for small group collaborative work, or for independent study. Additionally, learning commons are trending toward incorporating elements of makerspaces" (p. 79).

Little bookworm could barely contain his excitement. He inched his way up to the large blue doors and screeched,

"Mama! Look! It's the library!"

"Shhhh. Little One... Shhhh. Do you not know that libraries are quiet spaces?" Mama whispered.

"No, Mama! Libraries are the COOL places. Mrs. Pageturner told us to tell all our friends about the beanbag chairs and 3D printers in our school library. Now we go there every lunch hour to munch on our leaves and work on our projects."

"I had no idea," Mama said. "Tell me more, little one."

"It's the coolest, Mama! Mrs. Pageturner said she wanted our library to be a place where all of us little bookworms could collaborate, network, and create, where we could "gain skills and knowledge related to [our] own passions and interests" (Braun, Hartman, Hughes-Hassell, Kumasi, & Yoke, 2014). She said her library should be the "hub" of our school, and that it should be the center of technology, so she bought more computers, the 3D printer, made a maker-space area, and designed rooms where we can hang out and talk (Meyer, 2018). She says our library is for everyone, and it really is. Billy and Marvin don't have internet at home, so they come in after school to do their homework. It is just what they needed!" ar

"Little one, that is just wonderful! Boy, libraries sure have changed since I was a student worm," Mama replied. These new additions are certainly going to help people see the library as a wonderful and necessary place."

"Mrs. Pageturner said that she even wants families to come in so little and big bookworms alike can learn about technology and play with the maker-spaces (Meyer, 2018). And of course, we can read all the books too, added Little Bookworm."

Chapter 2— Stewardship: Advocacy

Stenstrom (2018) states "the information professional's ability to advocate for the profession while demonstrating the value that information organizations provide their communities is one of the most important skills needed" (p. 343).

"You certainly are a lucky worm to have Mrs. Pageturner as your librarian," said Mama. "Sadly, many places are cutting back on funding and libraries are suffering" (Kuon, Flores, & Pickett, 2014).

"Oh no!" said little Bookworm. "We could never allow that to happen. The library would just not be the same without Mrs. Pageturner and her assistant, Miss Bibliophile. I am going to do some research to see what would happen to the library without them!"

"Attention! Attention! Our libraries are in danger, and it is up to us to stop this. Did you know, according to EBSCO (2017) that "effective school libraries increase student achievement in a variety of ways, such as in reading and on state standardized tests"? (p.3).

Little Bookworm's Research findings:

Also,"the benefits associated with good library programs are strongest for the most vulnerable and at-risk learners, including students of color, low-income students, and students with disabilities" (Lance and Kachel, 2018).

Without librarians, we would be in trouble! Our scores would plummet, and who would recommend all the great books to us?

"That was an excellent report, Little Bookworm, said Mrs. Mudlover. Let's all remember to help advocate for our library services."

..."Therefore, Librarians should share their programs, and show their importance to administrators, teachers, and parents."

"My son, you should be proud of yourself, said Mama. Mrs. Mudlover sent me a note about what a good job you did on your librarian report. You know, I am thrilled to see you so passionate about libraries. Mrs. Pageturner has a complicated job handling literacy and technology in your school as well as collaborating with teachers (Lance and Kachel, 2018). She needs people on her side to show how important she is to all of you little bookworms. This can help give her a voice and confidence to speak out as well."