First and foremost, why should we consider allocating space and time in our school libraries to student art and writing exhibits? There are several compelling reasons, including the desire to recognize student brilliance, develop a creative environment, and increase library… Read More ›
art
STEM, Art, SEL, and Literacy: A Perfect Match for Learners
One of my favorite things to do as a school librarian is to find ways to combine STEM, art, SEL, and literacy. From an educator’s point of view, learners are constantly engaged with STEM and Art projects. STEM and Art… Read More ›
Reaching Beyond English: Collaboration with Teachers in All Content Areas
This November, when an art class walked into the library with their teacher, the students didn’t seem incredulous that they were there. Rather, there was curiosity brewing on their faces: how in the world would the library connect with what… Read More ›
Picture Books That Inspire Readers to Create
Did you know that author/illustrator Yuyi Morales is a self-taught artist? The public library was her school. Picture books inspired her to create. When Morales immigrated to America, she spent hours studying and copying picture books. The books fueled her… Read More ›
Get Ready to Make It New: Embracing Change in 2021
Attention is love, what we must give children, mothers, fathers, pets, our friends, the news, the woes of others. What we want to change we curse and then pick up a tool. Bless whatever you can with eyes and hands… Read More ›
Library Centers: Explore the Arts with Picture Books
A library center is a space set up for exploration with limited instruction. Think of a library center as an exhibit in a children’s museum. Here, you’ll notice learners engage with few directions. There’s a sense of freedom in choosing… Read More ›
Specials Collaboration
The middle school curriculum at my school includes one period that we refer to as “Specials.” During this period, the 5th, 6th, and 8th grade students have two days of visual arts, two days of information skills (our fancy term… Read More ›