Learning in libraries: lessons for staff

Abstract

The mere provision of resources is rarely sufficient to meet the learning needs of library users. Learners also require assistance from staff, first to identify their needs, and then to ensure these are met successfully. An understanding of the possible barriers that may prevent learning taking place and an appreciation of the factors that motivate people to learn can help library staff to meet the learning needs of their users more effectively. As providing support for learners is assuming increasing importance in libraries, librarians will need a broad understanding of learning methods in order to recognise the many and varied ways in which their users approach learning. An appreciation of some of the concepts and techniques of both formal and informal education should, therefore, be delivered as part of librarians’ initial training, with additional opportunities to develop skills provided through continuing professional development.