Teacher Lab Has Served Over 1000 educators Since 2014
Brooklyn Public Library was named as one of 10 Top Innovators during the Urban Libraries Council annual forum last week in Baltimore. A panel of expert judges selected Brooklyn Public Library’s Teacher Lab from 220 submissions. The award recognizes programs which demonstrate the value and impact of public library service.
Teacher Lab began with a small group in a classroom in 2014. Now the course is online, and over 1300 educators have participated. Designed to help teachers navigate an expanding world of information—including locating primary sources, searching databases and evaluating websites— the self-paced course brings essential literacy skills to educators where they are.
“Teacher Lab strengthens the relationship between schools and public libraries by helping teachers impart critical thinking and research skills to their students. As teachers and students are increasingly inundated with information, public libraries are uniquely positioned to help them navigate an ever-expanding universe of sources,” said Linda E. Johnson, President and CEO of Brooklyn Public Library. “We are thrilled Urban Libraries Council has recognized this innovative program, and hope that recognition means Teacher Lab can be replicated across the country.”
In addition, more than 150 graduates have earned 12 hours of state-certified credit, applicable towards their teaching license requirements.
“Today’s public libraries are bold and pioneering community leaders that play many roles, from educational institutions to technology centers and entrepreneurial hubs,” said Urban Libraries Council President and CEO Susan Benton. “I congratulate Brooklyn Public Library for illustrating a persistent commitment to realizing a groundbreaking initiative that has transformed their community.
This project is made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services. You can visit Teacher Lab here.
About Brooklyn Public Library
Brooklyn Public Library is the nation’s sixth largest library system and among the borough’s most democratic civic institutions. BPL offers 65,000 free programs a year for people from all walks of life—immigrants learning a new language, students preparing for college, older adults seeking companionship, aspiring entrepreneurs launching their dreams, children discovering the world, and people of all ages exploring arts and culture. And BPL provides patrons 3.9 million opportunities to enjoy one of life’s greatest satisfactions: the discovery of a good book. Learn more at bklynlibrary.org
About Urban Libraries Council
Urban Libraries Council (ULC), founded in 1971, is the voice for public libraries and the force that inspires them to evolve. ULC creates the tools, techniques, and ideas to make ongoing improvements and upgrades in services and technology. ULC also speaks loudly and clearly about the value public libraries bring to communities, and secures funding for research that results in the development of new programs and services. And by serving as a forum for library leadership, ULC produces innovative ideas and best practices that ensure community impact.