Learning Commons...Mixed Fraction?

In paragraphs 7 to 11 of David Loertscher's article, "Flip This Library..." (see link to the left) he talks about a the conversion of today's media center in to a "Learning Commons" area. He suggests that this new space can be used for collaborative teaching, community events (so far I don't see much difference from what many of us try to promote in the Media Center). Same goes for the experimental learning hub. If a Media Center is equipped with the latest technology, this should be happening now. But the next paragraph has me intrigued: e-books, databases, to student generated work, to social networking software creating a 24/7 accessible virtual classroom ...isn't this reminiscent of chatrooms and blogs, and livejournal? Can you access that media from your school? Do you think it is likely we shall have some private/protected type of software in the near future that will allow us this kind of interaction with our students/teachers/parents in an organized but virtual way? Maybe some of you already have! Let us know! Is it feasible, is it coming, do you have it?

We Need A Revolution....

I thought David Loertscher's Article in the November issue of SLJ would be a great place to start a discussion of the future of libraries and school media centers. If you haven't read it yet, please click on the link to the left ("Flip this Library...."), then come back here and share your thoughts. I really like Mr. Loertscher's Microsoft/Google comparison and feel that is very relevant.

I am considering buying no more print reference resources for my facility. Students go straight to the computers and Google (unless/until I stop them). My personal feeling is that ficton will be around in print resources for a while...but as digital resources become available I am planning to shift horses.

So now, your turn....what strategies can we take to integrate our resources into the lifestyles of our students?