Taste of TMC5 Papers : Learning Environment

Culturally Relevant and Responsive School LibraryLearning Commons

Picture Book Representations of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgendered, and Queer (LGBTQ) Families and Their Presence in School Libraries in Canada

by Michelle Brown

This paper details a research study focused on inclusion of LGBTQ literature in school library collections, specifically picture book depiction of family; and the challenges, concerns and best practices teacher-librarians face in developing inclusive collections. Research literature, components, methodology, results and references are shared along with an extensive list of LGBTQ titles studied across several provinces. Ms. Brown presents a fascinating look at an important and sensitive topic, with hope that library staff will continue or commence to work with their learning communities “to build collections inclusive to all”.

Equity and Social Justice in The Library Learning Commons

by Jenn Brown, Ontario

Teacher-librarian Jennifer Brown writes and reflects about the potential of the library learning commons design and practice to address equity and social justice in co-planning learning and teaching experiences, as well as shares the developed concept of an “open maker forum” for students. Brown includes reflective questions and resources for teacher-librarians to help build capacity in addressing equity and social justice, and provides two recent library learning commons project examples accompanied by illustrative photos: 1) a staff wide inquiry into embedding First Nation, Métis and Inuit perspectives in practice, and 2) a daily open learning opportunity for student voice in the makerspace movement.

Revisioning the Library as a Learning Commons

by Carlo Fusco

Enjoy this on site video of transformations Carlo Fusco has made to address building a Culturally Relevant and Responsive School Library Learning Commons learning community.