Creating Learning Labs at Libraries

The MacArthur Foundation and the Institute of Museum and Library Services announced plans to create 30 new Youth Learning Labs in libraries and museums across the country. This was inspired by a creative teen space at the Chicago Public library called YOUmedia. Check it out; particularly note the use of color, seating arrangements, and performance/practice spaces :



From the MacArthur Foundation: The new labs will help young people become makers and creators of content, rather than just consumers of it. ... With $4 million in funding MacArthur and IMLS will begin a planning process to launch a national competition in 2011 to create the new learning labs. The new learning labs will be spaces for experimentation that engage young people with both digital and traditional media to promote creativity, critical thinking, and hands-on learning. ... More information on "Re-imagining Learning in the 21st Century"