Searching for Digital Libraries in Education: Why Computers Cannot Tell the Story

This article argues for the evaluation of digital libraries in schools by drawing upon situated observations, an exploration of educational goals, and a discusssion of current technologies. As most of the research and development of digital libraries has been directed toward specialized workplace settings, the authors posit that an unrealized potential exists for the development of educational digital libraries, raising a number of current questions and challenges. First, the meanings and practices of information searching and information use are explored from the perspectives of teachers and students. The article next focuses upon contexts of library activity, emphasizing how physical and digital spaces carry their own meanings in relation to the school community and pedagogical practices. Further, these physical and digital spaces articulate and become the contexts of new hybrid practices and roles for educators and students alike.