[R]Evolution in reading cultures

Lederer, Haylee

O'Connell, J., Bales, J., & Mitchell, P. (2015). [R]Evolution in reading cultures: 2020 vision for school libraries. Australian Library Journal, 64(3), 194-208.

Summary: While this article deals with Australian libraries, I feel that libraries across the globe are in a similar state of flux, and therefore there is much to learn from this article! '[R]Evolution in reading cultures' focuses on school libraries and their own unique collection development policies. Compared to other types of libraries, school libraries have been rather slow to incorporate and embrace online resources, such as eBooks. The article's authors provide a 'Implications for best practice' when it comes to incorporating eBooks, such as: supporting an accurate eBook policy, diversifying eBook collections, providing eBooks relevant to student learning and interests, etc (pg. 194). The biggest roadblock to accessing eBooks in school libraries is that students do not associate them with 'reading' but more 'learning'. You learn from the internet, but you read books for pleasure. What needs to be changed is the culture of reading and how students approach it. The article touches on many different ways that schools can embrace eBooks and integrate them into their learning technologies - "The challenge for school libraries is to move beyond the practicalities of eBook collection management to the promotion of services that address the needs of pedagogy and curriculum" (pg 206). 

Evaluation: I really enjoyed reading this article. After finishing all the presentations for this class, I've been thinking about technology and online resources in the library. This article was well researched and well written and is ultimately a good resource for teacher and librarians interested in maintain a collection of eBooks. The article also covers many issues that libraries face when it comes to increasing access to technology - such as budget, space, etc. Overall, this article is successful at what it is trying to do, which is convincing educators that eBooks are necessary for learning in today's technological environment, as well as providing research and resources to make it a smooth transition.