Today's Member of the Month is Katie Craven. Katie works at Harvey Rice School in Cleveland, Ohio. She has been a school librarian for 9 years.
We asked Katie 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?
I love interacting with every student in the school. I get to learn their likes and dislikes, personalities and interests and then build upon those personal relationships through books and a love of reading.
Name one children's book that you couldn't live without in your library.
The Book With No Pictures
Tell us why you decided to join the Elementary Librarian Community. What's your favorite thing about it?
Sharing ideas and resources, along with crowdsourcing new ideas is how I spend time of my "down time". The Elementary Librarian Community not only provides lessons that I can use as is or adapt, but opportunities to interact with other librarians.
What's the biggest challenge you're currently facing when it comes to your school library?
I'm transferring to a new-to-me school for 20-21. There has not been a librarian there for years. I have yet to see the space, but am told there are few books and circulation has been nonexistent. Three biggest challenge will be changing the school culture in terms of the library, while transforming the space and building the collection. My district had not released the school plans for the fall yet, and Covid-19 cases are rising in my city. I hope the pandemic allows me to reach my goals!
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?
Find out what works best for you. Create a great PLN for ideas, but ultimately you must decide what works best for you and your school. Don't be afraid to make mistakes or try new things, until you find a good rhythm. (But remember to give yourself grace during this process).
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