How the OHS Library Shares Student Creativity
By Olivia Voth
It’s not uncommon for students to feel anxious or uneasy at school. Luckily, the students here at Owasso High School have a perfect escape for that. As head librarian of the East Campus Media Center, Melinda Gallagher has created a hidden oasis for students from all walks of life.
At first glance, it seems as though the books are what students turn to for escape. However for many students, the school library, or just reading in general, serves as a safe haven from the hectic reality. Gallagher has put in every effort to make sure of that, by promoting books with diversity and an inclusion of others. This, Gallagher hopes, will help uplift all students.
The Idea Lab is like a secret garden to those students who may not have spent too much time in the East Campus library. The Idea Lab is filled with all sorts of methods for students to express themselves. There are walls designated for drawing on, painting supplies, sewing supplies, a button maker, and the list goes on and on. For the students who are more interested in technology, there are books about coding and even a 3D-Printer.
The 3D printer in the Idea Lab under a fun astronaut mural. Photo taken by Olivia Voth
“I wanted to base this around the ‘Room of Requirement’ from ‘Harry Potter,’” Gallagher offered, true to her love of literature as well as the students’ fondness of the Harry Potter series.
When a student first walks into the Idea Lab, they may not know what fortunes it entails. To those students, Gallagher explains that there are plenty of books and guides that will allow students to learn different skills to help them draw, code, 3D print, sew or engage in a variety of resources for other interests.
Students have been known to write encouraging messages on the walls, design costumes and any other type of crafting imaginable in the Idea Lab. It’s truly a delightful surprise to all the new juniors who finally got to discover it during Library Orientation this year, and simply anyone who visits the East Campus Library for that matter. It is a charming addition to the school and a grand welcome to students, like the warm hug of creativity and comfort that makes Owasso Rams excited to learn and grow.