Pearl-Cohn Entertainment Magnet High School A 21st Century Library Proposal by H. Jeanette Lambert March, 2013

INTRODUCTION From school libraries, to media centers, to learning commons: The impact of the digital age on high school education is ever-evolving. It is our role as educators to prepare our students with information and skill sets that reflect the world we live in today. What should libraries be providing for students? How will the availability and access to technological tools impact student performance?

Current State of Pearl-Cohn Library Library Collection The library collection stands at 15,086 items, which averages out to be 17 items per student. This is far above the minimum recommended average of 9. The collection includes audiobooks, DVDs, playaways, as well as print materials.

Current State of Pearl-Cohn Library Limitless Library Students and staff have access to over one million items at the Nashville Public Library. Through Limitless Library, a partnership which was started in 2009 between Nashville Public Library and Metro Schools, anyone can request materials from the public library to be sent to Pearl-Cohn. So whatever voids exist in the school library collection can be addressed through this unique program.

Current State of Pearl-Cohn Library Students and staff have access to a wide selection of subscription databases or online resources offered by Metro Schools or Limitless Library: • ABC-CLIO Databases • Atomic Learning • Culture Gram • Encyclopedia Britannica (online version) • Gale Virtual Reference • Learning Express • Rosen Teen Health & Wellness • SIRS Knowledge Source • Tennessee Electronic Library • World Book Encyclopedia

Current State of Pearl-Cohn Library Facility The library facility is in good condition. There is no need for major repairs to walls or fixtures. The carpet is less than two years old. Plants and art prints have been used to beautify the room, making it as comfortable as possible.

Current State of Pearl-Cohn Library Furniture The tables and chairs in the library have been there for over 20 years and visibly display their age. Additionally, the furniture is bulky and doesn't have the ability to utilize space in the manner that sleeker, more modern designs offer.

Current State of Pearl-Cohn Library Space The library doesn't offer any private space for classroom instruction. The area near the computers is utilized as the primary group learning area for groups. It is presently not conducive to simultaneous class instruction and independent student research/study.

Current State of Pearl-Cohn Library Computer Lab The computer lab consists of 16 computers in the main area and eight in the mini lab. The split access has raised challenges for classes who need to use the computer lab. Additionally, it presents challenges to both instruct and monitor multiple students simultaneously in separate locations.

Needs Assessment Study Academy 41% Freshman, 25% AEC, and 34% AEM Gender 53% Female and 47% Male

Needs Assessment Study Academy 41% Freshman, 25% AEC, and 34% AEM Gender 53% Female and 47% Male

Needs Assessment Study Academy 41% Freshman, 25% AEC, and 34% AEM Gender 53% Female and 47% Male

Needs Assessment Study Academy 41% Freshman, 25% AEC, and 34% AEM Gender 53% Female and 47% Male

Needs Assessment Study Academy 41% Freshman, 25% AEC, and 34% AEM Gender 53% Female and 47% Male

Needs Assessment Study Academy 41% Freshman, 25% AEC, and 34% AEM Gender 53% Female and 47% Male

Needs Assessment Study Some student feedback: • "I love the library because there is a variety of DVDs, movies, and books to choose from. • "I would suggest a media center where students are able to plug in headphones, use their laptops, and work by themselves [or in a group...]" • "I wish the hours were longer, since my home does not have the resources like the library."

Needs Assessment Study Staff members were given surveys that focused on the integration of library services with classroom instruction. Below is an average of responses on selected issues from the survey. Ratings are from 1 -5 (poor - excellent) Level of technology 3 Quality of library collection 3 Professional collection 3 Information literacy instruction 4 Collaboration with librarian 4

Needs Assessment Study Some staff feedback: • "Need (audio) speakers." • "...need more netbooks, desktops, or iPads for students." • "May need a silent reading area with lounge-style chairs" • "Need stools so students can use laptops" • "Need updated furniture and reorganization of room."

Pearl-Cohn Library: The Future Is Now How does Pearl-Cohn best realign itself for future success? Pearl-Cohn is a model school for Project Based Learning. We are expected to engage students in projects that solve problems , and help develop skills that will be beneficial in the workforce and the community at-large.

Recommendations Rationale Conference Room #1 and #3 Make this room a Production/Collaborative Room for students. Install a 27" TV with a designated laptop. Also equip with a small table and up to four chairs. Rationale For group projects that are technology-based. Students will be able to hold small meetings of 2-4 people. Ideal spot for small multimedia projects or group assignments. Example Production/ Collaborative Room

Recommendations Rationale Conference Room #2 Repurposed as the Professional Development Room for teachers and staff members. Rationale Teachers and staff will have an intimate space for content area planning meetings, common core sessions, and other small group meetings. Multiple copy sets of professional resources/materials available. Conference Room #2

Recommendations Rationale Mini Computer Lab Remove desktop computers and counters. Change room to an Instructional Center. Equip room with 24 stacking chairs, 4 portable tables and one white board, and an iPad cart. Install full glass doors. Rationale This room will be the space for whole class instruction, instead of main library area. Teachers can move furniture to fit their lesson needs. The room would offer privacy and allow students to focus more. Teachers can also use room for other purposes. Example of Mini Lab Layout

Recommendations Rationale Magazine Section Discard fabric chairs and replace with comfortable stuffed chairs and ottomans. This should be done on both sides of the magazine shelves. Rationale This is to be an area for informal use of newspapers and magazines, as well as leisure reading and writing. Example of Reading Area

Recommendations Rationale Reference Room Remove desktop computer. Place stuffed lounge chairs, comfortable armchairs, and ottomans in this room. Rationale This is an area for people who desire a place for leisure reading and quiet study. Current Reference Room

Recommendations Rationale Circulation Desk Remove secondary desk. Place 3-4 counter stools at circulation desk. Rationale This is to be an area for working on laptops and digital devices. Example of Redesign

Recommendations Rationale Large Computer Lab Move two rectangular tables to the lab area. Increase number of desktop computers to 24 in main area. Rationale A standard-sized class can work together in private area Example of Computer Area

Recommendations Rationale Main Library Area Mount flat screen monitor on upper wall near Essential Lit room. This Closed Circuit TV will serve for Digital Signage. Rationale News, literary, and library announcements (book of the week, new resources, reviews, etc.) can scroll through out school day. Example of Reading Area

Recommendations Rationale Main Library Area Furniture Remove all rectangular tables. With approved budget, replace all furniture with modern tables, chairs, and shelf space. Remove security bars. Rationale New furniture would enhance the learning environment, offer flexibility, and create ability to use the room for multiple purposes. Example of Possible Redesign

TECHNOLOGY Technology should be viewed as an educational tool. It is critical that students have the ability to use this tool to access and analyze information. The library is prepared to play a leadership role in preparing students to become digital citizens. Examples: Facebook Twitter YouTube SlideRocket Google applications Blogging

CONCLUSION KEY GOALS FOR REDESIGN Flexible work space Production design areas Collaboration Independent study It is evident that some measure of change is needed for the Pearl-Cohn library. The school’s focus has changed over the past few years, as well as district goals and standards. Common Core Standards will be in 100% of state schools within two years. Technology Literacy Standards will be in place in MNPS by August, 2013. The library will be expected to expand instruction and resources to meet the demands of a global society.