Today's Member of the Month is Breanna Hoelzel. Breanna works at Pearl River Central Elementary School in Carriere, MS. It's her first year as a school librarian!
We asked Breanna some questions about her experience as a school librarian and we would like to share them with you.
What's your favorite thing about your job as a school librarian?
My favorite thing about being a school librarian is that I am able to see students and learners that come from all walks of life. Every child has a story and I love to learn the story of their lives. I hope to instill a love of reading and learning in all the lives of my students. I love seeing the joy on their faces when they read and learn new things. I love to watch them succeed. But mostly, I love to watch them grow. I thank God for each precious soul that enters the doors of our library.
Name one children's book that you couldn't live without in your library.
The Wonky Donkey by Craig Smith
Tell us why you decided to join the Elementary Librarian Community. What's your favorite thing about it?
I decided to join Elementary Librarian Community because I wanted to make the most of the library experience in my school. I knew the library needed to change and broaden its impact on our students and staff. I wanted the library to support the curriculum we have in place. After doing much research, I chose to join the Elementary Librarian Community and I have already noticed a difference in its impact on our school.
What's the biggest challenge you're currently facing when it comes to your school library?
One of my biggest challenges in the school library is the amount of available space. Our school is currently under construction and the library is in a temporary place until construction is complete. We will soon be getting a much larger facility to house even more learners and materials. I am excited to see the growth of knowledge that will come from our larger library media center.
If you could give one piece of advice to a brand new school librarian (or someone considering becoming a school librarian), what would it be?
You do not have to do this job by yourself. There are people who you can trust to help you. Thankfully I have a library assistant that I can trust to help me whenever I need it. Collaboration with professionals allow for you to reflect on things that can be improved in the library. A library can always be made better! By constantly improving, you are not only making your life easier, but also your students' lives! Remember, you are in the best profession in the world and you make a difference!
Ingel Soong says
I have personally read Wonky Donkey and find it a good read 🙂