Taking the Class out of the Classroom: Libraries, Literacy, and Service Learning

In the fall of 2013, the University of Minnesota, Morris (UMM) offered a First Year Seminar class focused on libraries and literacy with a service learning component. The students in the class spent part of class time learning about library science theory and the other part implementing that theory in three different service learning projects: leading storytimes for K-3 ESL students, offering computer literacy sessions for senior citizens, and assessing library use for the UMM campus library. The service learning component was a valuable tool in helping the students better understand the importance of libraries and literacy, especially in a small, rural community