As I write this last blog post as President of the American Association of School Librarians (AASL) during what has been a challenging year, I want to extend my gratitude to so many people including: AASL Staff AASL Board Members… Read More ›
community
School Library Outreach Programs
School libraries have long been a staple of the educational system, providing learners and faculty members access to a wide range of books and resources. They are also a hub of community outreach, serving as a shared gathering space for… Read More ›
Grateful for My Professional Organizations
During the holiday season, reviewing all of the things that I am grateful for has become a yearly tradition. In this unprecedented year, with the COVID-19 pandemic affecting our lives in so many ways, taking stock of items to be… Read More ›
Community — Our Libraries Feel Like Home
How Libraries Make Us Feel On a memorable day a few years ago, a precious fifth grader named Joseph visited the library. I heard him breathe deeply and say, “I just love the smell of the library on a Monday… Read More ›
Collaboration: It’s What Librarians Do
Summer greetings from my farm in NC! Some readers may have worked during the summer months; for others summer is a time to wind down. Whatever the case may be for you, I do hope you have enjoyed some time… Read More ›
What do three people in an airport have to do with inspiration?
Drawing Inspiration School librarians consistently look for inspiration. Inspiration motivates us to develop programming, supports, and approaches to teaching and collaboration. Inspiration also lets us consider ourselves in the greater world while appreciating those around us. This past month, a… Read More ›
Building Strong Communities
During April we specifically celebrate School Library Month, but also in April is National Library Week (April 7-13, 2019) where all kinds of libraries get in on the celebrating. As school librarians my co-librarian and I generally focus on the… Read More ›
Read Across America in the Middle School
Read Across America is an annual event that calls for every child in every community to celebrate reading on March 2, the birthday of children’s author Dr. Seuss. Most elementary schools celebrate in a variety of ways, including: Allowing students to… Read More ›
A Community That Reads Together
My hometown has a population of approximately 55,000 people and seven school districts. These districts have always acted as rivals rather than schools that form a united community of students. Three years ago my superintendent and I decided to attempt… Read More ›
Membership Makes a Mark
In my state of Virginia, I am very fortunate to be a member of the state librarian’s association—the Virginia Association of School Librarians (VAASL). As the old American Express commercial used to say, “Membership has its privileges.” Possibly the most… Read More ›