Access to mobile devices has completely changed the reading habits of new-generation school students. Most school students these days acquire knowledge by reading eBooks, watching educational videos, or listening to audiobooks. However, many students still prefer accessing learning content physically in a relaxing and welcoming environment.
Primary and secondary schools cater to students’ changing reading habits and preferences by integrating conventional and digital libraries. They make on-premise school libraries a comfortable study environment by installing comfortable furniture and white lights. At the same time, they enable on-demand access to online content in various formats and languages by implementing digital library software.
We can understand the importance of libraries for school students by discussing the impact of conventional and digital libraries.
7 Reasons Why Conventional Libraries Are Essential for School Children
- Welcoming Study Environment
Primary and secondary schools have been creating a welcoming and relaxing environment by modernizing libraries. In addition to installing comfortable furniture, they reduce eye strain using warm or soft white lights. Hence, students relieve stress by spending time in the school library. Many school students further visit school libraries when taking a break from learning schedules and activities.
- Physical Learning Resources
The sale of printed books is not declining despite the growing popularity of eBooks and audiobooks. Several studies suggest that a significant percentage of school students still read printed books and access physical learning resources. Conventional school libraries help students understand a topic by reading printed books, watching DVDs, or listening to educational audio content.
- Academic Excellence
Many students visit school libraries to understand a topic or concept deeply. While spending time in the library, they gather additional information by accessing reference materials and research resources. Also, students get an opportunity to read books written by subject matter experts. Hence, conventional school libraries contribute immensely towards improving students’ academic performance and skill development.
- Knowledge Retention
Several studies have highlighted how self-learning or independent learning fosters knowledge retention and application. School libraries provide the perfect environment for students to acquire knowledge and develop skills independently. After attending formal classes, students can visit the school library to gather additional information in a quiet environment. Also, they can absorb knowledge by reading books without any distractions.
- Good Reading Habits
In addition to improving their academic performances, reading helps school students unleash creativity and hone critical thinking skills. School libraries drive the personal and professional development of students by fostering good reading habits. When a student visits the school library, he gathers information about new books and eminent authors. Also, the quiet and welcoming environment encourages him to read more books.
- Fun Activities
Schools encourage and motivate students to visit libraries by organizing various fun activities. For instance, teachers popularize school libraries with students by hosting events like book reviews, author visits, storytelling, and reading races. These fun library events keep school students stress-free after learning schedules. Also, students foster a love for reading by participating in these fun library activities.
- Socialization Opportunities
School libraries contribute hugely towards the development of an active community of book lovers. In addition to enabling access to physical learning resources, school libraries create opportunities for students to share and discuss ideas. The collaboration helps school students respect varying perspectives and become good team players in the future.
5 Reasons Why Digital Libraries Are Essential for School Children
- 24/7 Availability
Schools usually set up digital libraries by implementing cloud-based software. Students can access the cloud-based digital library over the Internet using desktops, laptops, smartphones, or tablets. Also, they can access the online library anytime and anywhere without downloading and installing the software. The 24/7 availability helps students access content without time restrictions associated with conventional school libraries.
- Multi-Format Content
School students acquire knowledge by accessing digital learning content in various formats. For instance, some students prefer reading eBooks and journals, while others listen to audiobooks or watch online videos. A digital library enables students to access content in many formats, including eBooks, journals, videos, audio, and simulations. Hence, it becomes easier for students to retain and recall information.
- Thought Leadership Content
New-age digital library software shares thought leadership content with students. They use artificial intelligence to curate online content shared by subject matter experts. The curated content helps students understand different viewpoints and perspectives on various topics. They can further access thought leadership content seamlessly on computers and mobile devices.
- Learner Engagement
Several studies have highlighted the effectiveness of gamification in improving learner engagement and learning experiences. Modern digital library software fosters learner engagement using popular video game elements like coins, badges, and scorecards. The gamification features make learning activities entertaining and interesting. Hence, students improve academic performances by accessing learning content regularly.
- Remote Learning
Many schools these days allow students without being present in classrooms by supporting remote learning. They implement remote learning strategies successfully by implementing essential eLearning tools. As an important eLearning tool, digital library software ensures students can access digital learning content seamlessly in various formats. Also, schools build unified learning platforms by integrating the cloud-based digital library solution with learning management systems (LMS) and online classroom software.
Conclusion
New-generation school students acquire knowledge by accessing learning content in physical and digital formats. Schools create opportunities for students to access physical learning resources by modernizing conventional libraries. At the same time, they enable students to access digital content anytime and anywhere by implementing digital library software.
Primary and secondary schools develop the habit of reading by enabling students to visit the conventional library or access the digital library. In addition, they use gamification techniques to make the on-premise and digital libraries foster learner engagement and boost learning experiences. The integration or unification depicts the importance of libraries for school students.
