Completed projects
Public Libraries: Supporting the Learning Process
CIRT has recently carried out a research project investigating how public libraries can support the learning process. This research was prompted by the fact that, although various projects have investigated learning and public libraries, most have focused on the outcomes and impacts of learning experiences. There has been less interest in examining in detail how libraries support learners specifically in relation to each stage of the learning process.
The first stage of the research was a literature review to examine some of the main theories and models of learning and consider how each of these might apply to the type of learning likely to take place in libraries. This was then used to devise a model for the process of learning in libraries.
Library service documentation, such as Annual Library Plans, were studied for references to ways in which libraries support learning. These provided general information about the ways in which libraries support learning, however, they rarely provided the degree of detail or reflective comments necessary. Telephone interviews were therefore arranged with representatives of ten library services in England.
Following these interviews, case studies were carried out in Birmingham libraries, at the Learning Centre and Learning Shop at the Central Library and at a community library with a New Opportunities Fund (NoF)-funded Learning Centre.
After a first draft of the report had been prepared, a visit was made to Sunderland libraries. The findings to date were shared with a group of library staff who discussed the main issues raised and provided further information about the provision for learners in libraries in Sunderland.
Publications
McNicol, Sarah, and
Dalton, Pete (2003), Public Libraries: Supporting the Learning Process.