The laboratory/library: further work on an internal teaching and working library unit in a school of librarianship

Abstract

Research into the effectiveness of student fieldwork in libraries has suggested that a laboratory/library within a school of librarianship could be a feasible alternative for the acquisition of certain types of experience. The unit envisaged is defined, and present laboratory-based teaching discussed. The laboratory/library has the potential to link theory with practice. to be a base for the development of ideas, to offer primary experience, whilst, equally essentially, to provide a normal library service. The educational advantages and disadvantages are discussed, and the conclusion is drawn that many basic cognitive skills could be handled in such a unit, leaving fieldwork more clearly organized for complex affective learning.