How is a modern media center different from a traditional library?

Today's media center functions as a welcoming, student-owned common area for collaborative work, independent study, technology use, and maker activities. It incorporates mobile, flexible furniture for multiple purposes beyond just reading and studying.

What furniture works best for media center collaboration?

Collaborative tables with spacious work surfaces designed for equal participation work well, along with lightweight school chairs that can be easily moved around the space for various group configurations.

How should technology be integrated into media centers?

Technology should be easily accessible with computer tables featuring grommet holes for wire management, charging carts for device storage, and dedicated computer areas for research and study.

What seating options work for individual study in media centers?

Soft seating with thick padding works well for long study sessions, along with soft sofas and chairs with built-in tablets that provide both comfortable seating and work surfaces.

How do I get a quote for a media center setup?

Contact School Outfitters at 1-800-260-2776 for an itemized quote including all three specially-designed stations for your media center.

Collaborative Study Area | School Outfitters

The Need for Media Centers

Today's media center is more than just a library. It also functions as a welcoming, student-owned common area that's great for collaborative work, independent study, technology or even maker activities. The media center should incorporate furnishings that allow it to serve multiple purposes—from reading and studying to group projects to distance learning. Furniture should be mobile, flexible, and easily arranged into various configurations as needed.

What Makes a Great Media Center?

For Students

The media center should feature tables or study carrels in a quiet place for independent work, as well as collaborative tables that can be easily arranged for group work. Technology should be easily accessible and situated on tables with grommet holes or other wire management systems to keep cables out of the way.

For Teachers

The best media center includes flexible furniture and comfortable seating to encourage students to spend more time there. Storage areas should be accessible and easy-to-use, so supplies are easy to find, distribute or collect.

For Administrators

Administrators require a media center that's furnished with products that work together to accomplish the vision for the space. They need to know that all products are available at the time they are needed and that their order will arrive correctly and on time. Installations must be quick and efficient.

Media Center Layout Zones That Work

Group Project Area

Accommodates students meeting for group projects or collaborative work.

Collaborative tables: Spacious work surfaces designed for equal student participation with easy-clean laminate surfaces
School chairs: Durable reinforced plastic with anti-static seats and lightweight design for easy movement

Individual Work Area

Gives students a quiet place to work independently on assignments or study for an exam.

Soft seating: Thick padding keeps students comfortable during study, reading, or device work
Soft sofas and chairs with tablets: Perfect for long study sessions with built-in work surfaces

Computer Area

Accommodates the use of technology during study or research.

Computer tables: Spacious surfaces with grommet holes for wire and cable management
Stools: Freedom of movement with backless seats that promote good posture
Charging cart: Keeps devices charged and secure with heavy-duty rolling casters

Choosing Your Media Center Solution

School Outfitters makes it simple to outfit a great media center. Choose the option that best fits your budget and needs and get an itemized quote with just one click, including all three of our specially-designed stations. Our helpful representatives are happy to answer any questions about our stations and how you can put them to use in your media center.

Need help? Call us at 1-800-260-2776 and one of our representatives will be happy to assist you with creating your modern media center environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is a modern media center different from a traditional library?: Today's media center functions as a welcoming, student-owned common area for collaborative work, independent study, technology use, and maker activities. It incorporates mobile, flexible furniture for multiple purposes beyond just reading and studying.
What furniture works best for media center collaboration?: Collaborative tables with spacious work surfaces designed for equal participation work well, along with lightweight school chairs that can be easily moved around the space for various group configurations.
How should technology be integrated into media centers?: Technology should be easily accessible with computer tables featuring grommet holes for wire management, charging carts for device storage, and dedicated computer areas for research and study.
What seating options work for individual study in media centers?: Soft seating with thick padding works well for long study sessions, along with soft sofas and chairs with built-in tablets that provide both comfortable seating and work surfaces.
How do I get a quote for a media center setup?: Contact School Outfitters at 1-800-260-2776 for an itemized quote including all three specially-designed stations for your media center.