The Experiential Library The future of family learning

1 2 3 What is family learning? LEARNING FOR DIFFERENT GENERATIONS AN APPROACH, NOT A SPECIFIC ACTIVITY BASED ON INTERACTIVE RELATIONSHIPS 2 “Family learning” broadly describes activities where different generations of a family are present, and where both adults and children benefit from learning. 3

Why family learning? In a time of limited state resources, creative thinking about the “enabling” activities that institutions can provide - using the resources, assets and relationships that are already available – to support local people is vitally important to future social prosperity and community wellbeing.

Case studies Kirklees Norfolk Coventry Lambeth Bournemouth

The impact of family learning Children Adults Family life Community life 35

Family learning in libraries “I think that libraries have probably been doing family learning for a really long time but not calling it and perhaps not recognising it as family learning.” – Abibat Olulode, Development Librarian, Lambeth Council Family learning in libraries

Increased reading and literacy Healthier and happier lives Improved digital skills and access Stronger communities Creative and cultural enrichment Improved digital skills and access Greater prosperity 45

Designing family learning “If you say ‘learning’ to people, some people will go ‘oh yeah that’s great, I love learning’. Other people will think ‘Oh god that sounds hard work, I don’t want to do that on my day off.’” – Sorrelle Clements, Coventry City Council Libraries Designing family learning

1 4 2 5 3 6 Six steps… IDENTIFY THE NEED ADOPT A FAMILY LEARNING APPROACH DEFINE THE OUTCOMES TAILOR ACTIVITIES ASSET BASED APPROACH USE TECHNOLOGY 2 5 3 6 61

Family learning toolkit

Other materials and resources