The library of Harrisburg High School works against the old-fashioned stereotype of a library. It functions as more than a place for just books and reading because this 21st Century library serves as a local gathering location where students can work in a new and flexible environment. A place where learning to comb the internet for credible sources happens along with finding a good book; however, according to Mrs. Langerock, head librarian at the high school, she stated, that what makes the library unique is “the people that visit it.”
The goal of the library, as stated by Mrs. Langerock, is to “have our library be a 21st Century library that is the hub of the school.” Because the library has changed and not become the place where we get all of our information, it now works to include the internet in its fact-finding databases. The internet contains so much information, some not so reliable. It has become harder for students to find information that comes from credible sources, so the librarians now work to show students how to find these reliable resources. According to Mrs. Langerock, “Librarians play an integral role in educating students how to sift through information and decipher what is credible vs fake news.” The library also works to incorporate hands-on experiences in students' studies, and with the growth of Makerspace, it helps in learning that has empowered students to explore the curriculum in different ways. As the library works with different pathways of learning at Harrisburg High School and helps students master their content, the librarians work with the school curriculum to add elements that fit into the general curriculum.
Because they strive not to hold the title of a stereotypical library, improvements happen all the time. The library has worked to increase its e-book and audiobook collection. When the state of South Dakota gave a grant to the school for books, our librarians had a hard time choosing the titles; although, according to Mrs. Langerock: “There are thousands of young adult books published every year, and we want to stock our library with current topics of interest for all our students.” The librarians have worked very hard to improve the library and the students will continue to reap these positive benefits.