Going to the Library: Online History Unit

Use the questions and images below to prompt discussion around experiences of going to the library. Note: there are no right or wrong responses. Close each discussion with a vote – hands up if you think things have stayed the same? Who thinks it is different?

This past exhibition has been added to the digital collection. You will find all images and text from The Children’s Library on the Newcastle Libraries website including great information on local libraries in the past as well as many valuable primary sources for staff and students to explore.

List the steps needed to find and borrow that Library item you really want.  Try first in the present-day library, then think about what you need to do to find and borrow a book in the past (note the video at the top of this page in the 'Video: Going to the Library today, Going to the Library in 1978' section is very helpful with this activity).

Present Day Library

Steps to locate and borrow:

1.

2.

3.

Library from 1978

Steps to locate and borrow:

1.

2.

3.

Which set of steps do you think is easiest? Why?

Design Brief for Students: Why do we have libraries? Why are they still around after such a long time?

You know so much about how libraries have CHANGED and how they have stayed the SAME. You are now in charge of designing a library for the FUTURE!!!

Think about the building – what parts go where?

Imagine what is in the Library -what are people visiting the library for?

Describe the library staff and what work will they do?

Design new technology to help the library get better and better.

Did you know you can book a visit to the library for your class? Call or email to discuss your teaching and learning needs and book in an excursion.

Contact: Louise Riley Library Customer Support Officer, Children and Youth

Email: lriley@ncc.nsw.gov.au

Phone: 02 4985 6681 

We have collated a “Then and Now” booklist for you to use in the classroom. Each title is hyperlinked to the Newcastle Libraries catalogue.   

Books on Shelf – Stage One 

Books on Shelf – Stage Two 

eBooks (Axis 360)