4 Key Secrets - Unlock Your Resource Centre's Potential

Unlock your Resource Centre's Potential Libraries have functioned as centres of learning and information for thousands of years. As the way we learn and teach changes, libraries are evolving from their traditional role as a warehouse for books, individual learning and quiet study into a place that facilitates the core tenets of 21st century education: active and experiential learning, creativity, and collaboration. Designed to expand on the functionality and concept of the school library, a Resource Centre is a well-equipped learning hub that offers students the ideal space to work on projects, access equipment and learning materials, gather and socialise. As printed materials become less relevant in a digital-first world, Resource Centres are changing their focus from shelves of books to hands-on tech hubs. With this new focus and the plethora of activities that need to be accommodated, the lines of bookshelves are being scaled back in favour of technology spaces, workrooms and other zoned areas. There are a few key reasons that Resource Centres are changing and becoming even more important in our schools. From a learning perspective, a Resource Centre houses the modern physical and digital learning assets that enable students to thrive. From printed, audio and e-books to Wi-Fi access, to printers, scanners and audio-visual equipment, The Resource Centre has them all. Schools can also better cater for technology for STEM-related subjects with 3D printers, CAD-enabled computers, or robotics stations. In this sense, the Resource Centre is a vitally important space in schools where existing classrooms aren’t designed for cross-disciplinary learning or can’t accommodate new equipment. Socially, Resource Centres are now adaptable enough to act as additional teaching spaces, meeting spots, showcase spaces for the school’s art, technology and science exhibitions, and event spaces connecting the school with their wider community. Finally, the Resource Centre is a treasured place for students where they can find a fresh perspective outside their usual classroom. A place that inspires free thought and sparks curiosity, empowering them to discover and problem solve. With so many functions and the ability to accomodate all ages and subjects, Resource Centres are as always the heart of the school community and an inclusive place for students and educators to spend time together learning and creating. It’s no surprise that designing and outfitting a Resource Centre for such a wide range of purposes and users can be overwhelming. With complex needs to consider such as lighting, zoning, layout, furniture, power and atmosphere, it can be hard to know where to start. This guide shows you how to create four key spaces that every Resource Centre should have to ensure your students and educators get a truly modern, exciting, and future-forward learning experience. THE IMPORTANCE OF RESOURCE CENTRES IN TODAY'S SCHOOLS HELPING YOU DESIGN THE PERFECT RESOURCE CENTRE FOR YOUR SCHOOL THE EVOLUTION FROM LIBRARY TO RESOURCE CENTRE The resource centre is a treasured place for students where they can find a fresh perspective outside their usual classroom . " "