Guidelines for Operating the Living Library of Secondary Schools under the Secondary Educational Service Area Office Pathum Thani

Abstract

This research has 3 objectives. First, it studies models and methods used to operate a living library. Second, it investigates success factors and obstacles of operating a living library. Third, it develops a guideline that makes the operation of a living library successful. Data are collected through a series of semi-structured in-depth interviews with 12 key informants who are administrators of secondary schools in Pathum Thani Province.

There are three research results. First, the living libraries can be found in the main library, subject areas, classroom corners, and other areas. Second, librarian teachers are key to making a successful living library, while lack of Information technology resources makes some libraries' operations unsuccessful. Third, six strategies that build a successful living library include 1) a close relationship between the school leaders and community, 2) quality services provided by the school librarians, 3) teachers who encourage students to read, 4) eager-to-learn students, 5) activities that attract students to come to the library and 6) a meaningful collaboration among schools that operate a living library.