What was once simply called the “library” is now called the “Learning Commons.” Not only has the name changed, but the entire setup has transformed.

In the past, the furniture was stationary along with being “large” and “clunky,” and there here were hundreds of dated and long-untouched books according to Mrs. Maria Benz, who is in her second year as VHS’s new librarian, Mrs. Benz.

Now, the Learning Commons welcomes students to a modern area, creating a positive impact on student learning. Students are taking ownership of the space and there has been an increase in the number of students studying there before and after school. New books and bookcases have been included as well as comfortable seating areas, adding to the modern and welcoming look.  Students have also gotten used to being able to buy coffee and muffins in the Learning Commons, sold by the Student Council.  

One of the major differences this year is that the new furniture is on wheels, creating a dynamic space. If there is ever a future event held in the Learning Commons, the furniture would easily be moved around. The Learning Commons is also now composed of independent reading areas, as well as a common area and a classroom area.  Mr Atkins’s Engineering Club is planning to build a bar along the glass wall for additional independent areas. With a separate area designated as a classroom, teachers are now able to bring their classes in, for example, to teach them about citations.

In addition to the literal area, the Learning Commons online presence has been modernized. The Learning Commons website, located through the Verona High School webpage, provides research databases, citation tools, a digital book selection, and more. Recently, the Gale Suite has been added which is a series of different databases from science to history. It is also connected with Google and is student-friendly.

The Learning Commons is an overall work in progress. Changes are constantly being made, both improving the look and usefulness of the space.