Concepts that stood out for me...

When I began my research, I found that there were a number of articles on my topic of learning commons.  I decided that I wanted to focus primarily on the process of moving from a traditional library media center to a learning commons.  I wanted to find literature that would provide me with visuals and actual tangible ideas and suggestions that I could implement in my own space.  

Two of the pieces of literature, one article and one book, do provide a number of photographs as examples of what a learning commons could look like.  They also offer a very clear step-by-step approach to making changes in the library to be more user-friendly.  I am finding that all of the literature I am coming across is really based around creating a space that allows for exploration, research and inquiry-based learning.  There is also a large focus on having a strong collection, both print and digital as well as access to technology for students.  There is also an emphasis on providing comfortable furniture for students to be able to curl up and read.  

The space in the learning commons needs to be versatile and there needs to be a range of areas throughout the library that can be used for different purposes.  One of my colleagues spoke to us about a learning commons using the analogy of the campfire, the watering hole and the cave.  The campfire would be where the whole group gathers and where the teacher could do instruction.  The watering hole is where small groups can gather to collaborate or discuss what they are exploring in the library and the cave is a quiet space for individuals who want to read independently.  This analogy really stayed with me and I keep it in mind as I read through the literature and think about how I want to transform my library space.  I look forward to pulling ideas from my research and implementing them in my library!