The library learning commons concept in a Maltese school library : a case study

Abstract

This case study investigates into the perceptions of a Maltese girls’ church secondary school community by proposing a cultural shift in the school library. Members of this community were presented with the Library Learning Commons concept and asked for their viewpoints if such concept were to be introduced in their school. Library Learning Commons is defined as a physical and/or virtual space that is constructive and conducive to learning in a participatory and collaborative practice. The paradigm shift proposed to participants stimulated critical discussions during focus groups sessions with the aim of understanding the perceptions and readiness of this school to consider adopting the concept. The participants’ discourses yielded an interesting amount of data for this research to help the researcher analyse the possibility of the concept’s introduction and the implications that comes with it. It transpired that there are ambivalent interpretations from constituents of this school. The general perception towards Library Learning Commons is quite positive, however, a number of pertinent issues that need attention prior to implementation were also brought forward and are worthy of consideration. Consequently, all the discourses were reflectively and dialectically analysed to extract valid conclusions to construct a theory of action. A number of recommendations were proposed.