Collection development is one of my favorite parts of being a librarian. Each year I place two large book orders, stocking up on the newest releases of every genre. When the shipments are delivered, it’s like I won the lottery…. Read More ›
collection development
MISelf in Books: A Diverse Book List for All
Recently, the Michigan Association for Media in Education (MAME) released the 2020 MISelf in Books List. MAME is an affiliate of AASL and works with librarians across the state of Michigan. The MISelf in Books List is an annual list… Read More ›
Assessing Your School Library to Ensure All Students Are Represented
Five Years Ago It seems like many long ages have passed since Lin-Manuel Miranda, accepting the Tony Award for Hamilton’s score, gave an emotional and heartfelt speech (in sonnet form!) that honored his own wife and also gave tribute to… Read More ›
Top 20 Knowledge Quest Posts of 2020
School librarians stay informed about their profession by subscribing to the Knowledge Quest blog. The content covers topics about collaboration, teaching and learning, professional development, library management, advocacy and technology. Knowledge Quest bloggers shared resources to support school librarians during… Read More ›
Book Pairings to Motivate Teenagers
In the midst of our fast-paced society, it’s more important than ever to spark a love of literature in adolescents. Based on conversations I’ve had with students over the years, I’ve learned that teenagers have lost motivation to read for… Read More ›
Digital Speed Dating with Books
One of my favorite yearly library lessons is 11th-grade Nonfiction Book Speed Dating. Watching students actively walk around the library from table to table exploring books always makes me smile. Motivating teens to read is a challenging aspect of my… Read More ›
Print Nonfiction vs. Databases
For years I have heard librarians talk about the debate between print nonfiction and databases in their collections for research. With my library closed to students still and no end in sight, I thought it might be time to dig… Read More ›
Updating My Collection via the Inspire Collection Development Grant
My library is beautiful. It has one, large west-facing wall full of glass windows. It has traditional blonde oak stacks with matching tables and chairs. It also has many of the original books purchased in the 1950s and 60s. When… Read More ›
Access to Print Books? Yes!
In this time of virtual and hybrid learning, are print books still important? My answer is a resounding “yes”! However, what do you do if your administrator doesn’t “get it”? I received a request for advice from a school librarian… Read More ›
Using #Bookstagram to Enhance the Library
For the past three years, as I’ve incorporated Google Suite, Canvas, Kahoot, and other interactive digital tools into my library practice, I’ve seen firsthand how technology can benefit my school community. During the quarantine, my technological skills helped me communicate… Read More ›