To design and manage flexible, functional, and inspiring spaces that reflect the school library’s role as a hub of learning, wellbeing, and critical and creative thinking.
The Environment domain focuses on creating library spaces that inspire curiosity, comfort, and connection. It encompasses everything from layout and zoning to furniture, lighting, and atmosphere — all designed to support flexible learning, wellbeing, and creative collaboration. Thoughtful design transforms the library into a vibrant hub where students feel welcome and engaged.
The Seven Domains of School Library Practice framework provides a holistic guide for leading, designing, and sustaining effective school library programs. Each domain, Environment, Reading, Learning, Resources, Leadership, Innovation, and Community, represents a key aspect of professional practice that together shape dynamic, future-focused libraries. The framework recognises the interconnected nature of these domains, highlighting how thoughtful design, guided learning, diverse collections, supported literacies, strategic leadership, creative innovation, and strong community connections work in harmony to enhance learning, wellbeing, and engagement.
The Seven Domains of School Library Practice is designed to be a practical guide and tool for school library professionals. To use the guide, there are a range of helpful resources, including posters that outline the framework, and audit tools.
The Seven Domains of School Library Practice Framework © 2025 by Madison Dearnaley is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 4.0