Libraries, community centers, schools all stand alone in the community, not being connected to the communities in which they are located. Each drawing upon the same limited resources.
Young people need to learn and see how what they learn is relevant and useful in the communities in which they live.
In many cultures learning took place by participating in the daily activities of the village. Young boys were go out hunting and fishing with their fathers, grandfathers, uncles, cousins and other members of their village. There were no formal schools that required specialized experts, locations or resources. People who had something to teach would pass the information to younger generations.
The information was also useful in the survival of the people. It was designed to prepare you for providing for basic human needs, i.e. food, clothing and shelter. People were taught to provide for themselves, families and villages. Today much of the knowledge that is given to students only fosters a dependence on institutions and experts.
I believe that we should return to this model of learning and education. The community acting as the school and members of the community as teachers. It also creates a connection beteen the students and the community in which they live.
