Library Rearranged to Fit Students’ Tastes

Librarian Kathleen Knop believes more students will utilize the East library if the space begins to feel more like a coffee shop or bookstore, and less like a high school.

Because of this, she polled freshman students during their orientation regarding their thoughts on the organization of the fiction section. Knop decided to specifically survey the freshman since they will have the longest use of the SME library.

“[270/310 students] said they would want [the fiction section] organized by genre rather than by author last name,” said Knop.

Knop got the idea of organizing by genre from various blogs written by librarians across the country who write about changes in their libraries.

“A Blue Valley school has already organized their books this way, and with an overwhelming number of freshman in favor of this change, I think students will like it,” said Knop.

Knop set up an online survey on the library website regarding what changes students want made in the library for this school year.

During the 2013-2014 school year, the physical layout of the library will be made more open by removing the tall bookshelves. Knop has ordered four leather chairs in hopes of  making a common space for students to gather and study before and after school. In addition, there are new high top tables.

“A Blue Valley school has already organized their books this way, and with 98 percent of the freshman in favor of this change, I think students will like it,” said Knop.

Knop hopes there will be more traffic in the library, and wants more students to get involved in library activities by checking out the SME Library Facebook page.