Bklyn Public Library is top dog in innovations

Borough Wide

Move the tassels and pass out the awards to Brooklyn Public Library. The borough’s leading information center was awarded top honors by the Urban Libraries Council as a Top Innovator for its Teacher Lab. The accolade recognizes the program that demonstrates the value and impact of public library service.

Teacher Lab began with a small group in a classroom in 2014. Now the course is online, and more than 1,300 educators have participated. Designed to help teachers navigate an expanding world of information — including locating primary sources, searching databases, and evaluating websites — the self-paced course brings essential literacy skills to educators where they are.

“Teacher Lab strengthens the relationship between schools and public libraries by helping teachers impart critical thinking and research skills to their students,” said Linda Johnson, president and chief executive officer of Brooklyn Public Library. “As teachers and students are increasingly inundated with information, public libraries are uniquely positioned to help them navigate an ever-expanding universe of sources,” she added. “We are thrilled Urban Libraries Council has recognized this innovative program, and hope that recognition means Teacher Lab can be replicated across the country.”

In addition, more than 150 graduates have earned 12 hours of state-certified credit, applicable towards their teaching license requirements.

“I congratulate Brooklyn Public Library for illustrating a persistent commitment to realizing a groundbreaking initiative that has transformed their community,” said Susan Benton, president and chief executive officer at Urban Libraries Council.