Role of Libraries in Formal and Informal Education

&
Book Day Out

By
CHANDRASHEKHARA N
IstYear MSc.
Dept. of Studies and Research in Library and Information Science
Tumkur University, Tumkur.
 Contents

1. Introduction
2. Definition
3. Formal Education
4. Informal Education
5. Book Day out
 1. Introduction

• Library and educational institutions are two faces of the same

coin, one cannot survive without the other.
• The purpose of education cannot be fulfilled without a library.
• Library is often called a hub of educational activities and heart of
educational institutions with which it is attached.
• The main objectives of education are imparting knowledge,
inculcation of values and creation of vocational skills.
 2.Definition
Library:
 S R Ranganathan – “A library is a public institution or
establishment charged with the care of books, the duty of making
them accessible those who require the use of them”.
 Oxford – “ A building in which collection of books, CDs,
newspapers, etc. are kept for people to read, study, or borrow a
public/reference/university, etc”.

Education:
 Webster – “Education as the process of teaching to
develop the knowledge, skill, or character of the student”.
 Socrates – “Education means the bring out of the ideas of
universal validity which are latent in the mind of every man”.
3. Formal Education
 3. Formal Education

• Libraries play a crucial role in formal education at all

levels, from elementary school to graduate school.
• Libraries are not just physical spaces filled with
books and resources, but they are also a hub of
knowledge that connects students and teachers with
vast and diverse sources of information.
 3. Formal Education
a)Access to resources: Libraries provide access to a wide range
of materials, including books, journals, newspapers, magazines,
and digital resources. This allows students and teachers to access
information that may not be available through other means, such
as the internet or textbooks.
b)Research assistance: Librarians are trained to help students
and teachers navigate the vast amount of information available
and find the resources they need for research projects. They can
also provide guidance on how to evaluate sources and use
information ethically.
c) Information literacy: Libraries help to promote information
literacy, which is the ability to find, evaluate, and use information
effectively. By teaching students how to access and use
information, libraries are equipping them with a critical skill for
success in both academics and beyond.
 3. Formal Education
d)Technology support: Libraries provide access to technology, such as
computers, printers, and scanners, as well as software and digital
resources. This is especially important for students who may not have
access to these resources at home.
e) Study spaces: Libraries offer quiet and comfortable spaces for students
to study and work on projects. These spaces are especially important for
students who may not have a quiet or comfortable environment at home.
f) Community building: Libraries are often a hub of community
activity, and they offer a space for students and teachers to connect with
one another. This can foster a sense of belonging and promote
collaboration.
4. Informal Education
 4. Informal Education

• Informal education refers to learning that takes place outside of

formal educational institutions such as schools, colleges, and
universities.
• Informal education is often self-directed and motivated by
personal interests and hobbies.
• Libraries provide a valuable resource for individuals who seek to
engage in informal learning by offering access to a vast
collection of books, digital resources, and other materials.
 4. Informal Education
a)Access to information: Libraries provide free access to information
resources that can support informal learning. These resources include
books, magazines, newspapers, journals, databases, and online
resources. Libraries also provide guidance and support for accessing
and using these resources effectively.
b)Lifelong learning opportunities: Libraries offer a range of
learning opportunities for people of all ages. These include workshops,
classes, and other events that focus on a wide range of topics such as
technology, literacy, history, art, and culture. Many libraries also offer
resources and programs specifically for children and young adults, such
as story times, reading programs, and homework help.
c) Community engagement: Libraries provide a community space
where people can gather to share ideas, learn, and connect with others.
They often host events and activities that promote cultural
understanding and social awareness, such as author talks, film
screenings, and art exhibits.
 4. Informal Education

d) Personal development: Libraries provide resources that can

support personal development, such as self-help books,
biographies, and memoirs. They also offer resources that can
support career development, such as business and finance books,
resume-building tools, and job search resources.
e) Digital resources: Many libraries offer access to digital
resources such as e-books, audiobooks, online courses, and
databases. These resources are accessible from anywhere, making
them ideal for informal learning.
 Conclusion

• libraries play a critical role in both formal and informal education,

providing access to resources and services that support learning,
research, and personal growth.
• In formal education, libraries are an essential part of the academic
environment, providing resources and services that support
academic success.
• In informal education, libraries provide access to resources that
support personal interests, hobbies, and self-improvement, as well
as a safe and welcoming environment for learning and community
engagement.
 5. Book Day Out

• The Book Day Out concept is a significant aspect of the

foundation of Library and Information Science.
• It refers to an event or activity where a group of people, such
as library professionals or students, visit various libraries or
information centers to gain knowledge and experience about
their operations, services, and resources.
 5. Book Day Out
 Book displays: Create eye-catching displays of books on various
themes, such as books by local authors, books on a particular topic,
or books with diverse representation.
 Book swap: Encourage readers to bring in books they have
already read and exchange them for new ones. This is a great way to
promote book-sharing and build community.
 Reading marathon: Organize a reading marathon in which
participants aim to read as many books as possible within a certain
time frame. This can be a fun and engaging way to encourage
people to read more.
 Storytelling sessions: Invite local authors or storytellers to come
and share their stories with library visitors. This can be a great way
to introduce readers to new authors and inspire them to read more.
 5. Book Day Out

 Book clubs: Organize book clubs for different age groups, where
readers can discuss and analyze books they have read together. This
can be a great way to build community and foster a love of reading.
 Author visits: Invite authors to come and speak about their books
and writing process. This can be a great way to connect readers with
their favorite authors and inspire them to read more.
 Book-themed crafts: Set up craft stations where participants can
create bookmarks, book covers, or other book-themed crafts. This can
be a fun way to engage readers and encourage creativity.
 Book scavenger hunt: Create a scavenger hunt that leads
participants to various books throughout the library. This can be a fun
and engaging way to encourage people to explore the library and
discover new books.
 5. Book Day Out

 Book-themed movie screening: Screen a movie

adaptation of a popular book and host a discussion afterwards.
This can be a fun way to engage readers and introduce them to
new books.
 Literary costume party: Encourage readers to dress up as
their favourite literary characters and host a costume party in
the library. This can be a fun way to celebrate the joy of
reading and bring the community together.
 Conclusion

• Book Day Out is a concept that encourages people to visit libraries,

explore books, and discover the joy of reading. By promoting
literacy, improving information retrieval skills, and providing
experiential learning opportunities, this concept fosters
community engagement and supports the lifelong learning
philosophy.
• Ultimately, a Book Day Out is a great way to promote reading and
learning, especially among children and young adults.