Learning Centers for School Libraries

Learning Centers for School Libraries presents innovative, engaging, and fun ideas to target the AASL National School Library Standards and content-area standards. It contains almost everything needed to set up learning centers in a school library. The ideas are flexible and can fit different grade levels and lesson lengths. Suggestions for collaboration with classroom educators are also included.  This book offersStep-by-step directions for both the educator and learner and all necessary handouts, including directions and worksheets. The reader can use the book to quickly and easily set up centers. Some centers require only photocopies and basic materials to get started.  Guidance on how to create cross-curricular centers that target the AASL Standards and other content-area standards. A table is provided to enable educators to create centers that address specific standards or content areas. Centers for distance learning are also identified.Suggested modifications for both struggling and advanced learners, plus ideas for collaborating with other educators. These features broaden the potential audience beyond elementary school learners. 

"The author's discussions about each center are particularly helpful, with advice on what worked and what she would change doing it again. This gives readers the experience of 'seeing' the centers in practice before trying the centers themselves. Other center suggestion ideas are also included ... A recommended addition for school libraries." -- VAASL Voice, "Whether school librarians are overextended and rushing through classes or have more breathing room, they will appreciate this excellent guide to setting up learning centers, stations in the classroom or library where students can engage in self-directed activities ... An incredibly thorough and clear guide to implementing or extending learning centers in school libraries." -- School Library Journal (starred review), "Madigan's advice is unfailingly practical, and her enthusiasm shines through on every page. This should spark all sorts of ideas to help make school libraries welcoming, creative spaces." -- Booklist

Maura Madigan is a school librarian in Fairfax County, Virginia, and the author of the books Learning Centers for School Libraries and Project-Based Learning for Elementary Grades. She's worked in education for more than 25 years in the United States, South Korea, Japan, and the United Arab Emirates.