Celebrate School Library Month!

 

Believe it or not, there are still some people who do not know the value of a school library program or the role school librarians have in their school community.  

Maybe the data provided by Keith Curry Lance in his numerous studies haven't been advertised enough.  Perhaps, due to lack of time, we need to consider quick ways to get the word out.

School Library Month is a time when school librarians and those who support them, can shine a spotlight on the great work that is being done in and outside of the school library's walls.  Here are just a few ideas:

1. Spread the word about your school library program with a picture. 

• The saying " a picture is worth a thousand words" is so true. Pictures or snapshots of a moment planning a lesson, collaborating with a teacher or the hands of a student holding a book are a few great ways to show what you do and how you do it.
 

• Provide a quick description or reflection and consider placing it in a newsletter and/or a social media platform of your choice. 

2. Highlight your successes with a tweet, a video, anything that shares what we do. Share them with your principal or school community.

• You may even want to consider sharing the photo through social media.  By using #schoollibrarymonth along with an important day of the week (#FlashbackFriday or #Mondaymotivation) the hashtag can be used to spread the word far and wide.  
• Even if you share one picture during the month of April, it will be an effective way to showcase what you are doing and what you have done in your school library.  

3. Share the spotlight and highlight a school librarian you admire.  

• Share why you admire them and consider adding a brief reason for your admiration.  
• Make sure to use #schoollibrarymonth to get the word out and let them know their work is appreciated.

4. Consider sharing your success stories and the success stories of other school librarians in your school district at a Board meeting.

• A letter to the editor of a local newspaper or an op-ed piece for your local newspaper is another idea.

5. Spread the word about the Build America's Libraries Act.  

• 
  Thank your representative if they have provided support and contact you, representatives, if their support is needed. 
• The link here will provide you with the information you need, as well as a template to send a letter to your Senator. 

If you would like a visual to share with others to highlight the chance to put a spotlight on school libraries, you may use the visual located here. 

Using The LITLC Ensures Every Student Succeeds

Adventures in the LC: Weekly Summary (Part One)

Taking a moment to highlight the positives associated with our virtual library program.

Very excited!!

Thanks to the partnerships with teachers in three grade levels, Loch Raven Academy Technical was recognized as a Common Sense School. Collaborations occurred in a variety of content areas: Health, Science, Language Arts, and Social Studies.

Welcome to The LITLC Virtual Library

Public Comment: Continued Financial Support for School Librarians & Scho...

For BCPS Students: Accessing Your BCPL Resources

Books We Love Competition (2020)

What a Difference a Week Makes

Last week, we were closing schools in my district for what seemed like a two-week break.  Language Arts and Reading teachers were given a schedule to come to the library to have their students check out books.  Teachers and students helped me assist students and provide suggestions. Last Friday, over 500 books were checked out at our school.  I ended the day with sore feet and a happy heart. I had been able to see many students. At the time, my only concern was getting a few more supplies and soaking my feet.

Today, my concerns have grown. With each news conference and news segment, I grow concerned.  From disbelief to anger, to sadness. For a workaholic like me, I guess these are stages of grieving.  A week ago, I had ideas of things I would get done during the "break."  I had ideas about doing workouts and catching up on sleep and following-up on phone calls.  Today, I vacillate between pragmatism and defeatism. I guess that's normal for this pandemic we are facing. The world hasn't faced such an issue in its history.  During a time of "self-distancing" and talks of quarantines, I think my concerns are valid.

Today, I began to think of what I can do to help lessen the moments of defeatism.  I came up with a few things.  I don't think these are novel ideas but they may help others. Here it goes.

1.  I'm going to create a schedule for myself. I'm a WORKaholic. As such, I need something productive to do.  Whether it's creating resources for a virtual community of educators, sharing ideas with coworkers, sharing resources with friends. I'm going to create something, do something every day.

2.  I'm going to do something for others.  During a time of isolation, that may be difficult.  Two things came to mind.  I already mentioned doing things for the educational community but the call for DIY masks and blood drives are two areas where I can also assist. Even if the DIY masks are just for me, it should help lessen (see CDC suggestions) airborne pathogens spread just from breathing, speaking, etc. 

3.  I'm going to exercise.  It might be yoga, a walk or an IG group that listens to music from a DJ during a live session.  Whatever I do, I have to exercise and get an endorphin release that will help my mood.

4.  Communicate.  I'm not a talker.  It was after I chatted with my mom yesterday, that I saw how much it helped with my mood. The feelings of fear and worries that I held in for a few days lessened once I spoke about my concerns.  We may be physically isolated but we don't have to isolate our entire spirits and beings. Talking and communicating is going to be key for me and for others.

5. I'm going to pray and read my scripture.  This may not apply to everyone but for me, scripture eases my fears and gives me an anchor.  For me, prayer is going to help me during this time of uncertainty.

How are you coping? I'm curious about what others are doing to help themselves and others during this time of uncertainty.  Please share with me. Even it's only virtual, we can build a community. 

Take care,

Tiki

Adventures in The LC Newsletter

I'm working on a new post.  Until it is published, click here to read the recent newsletter for our school library, The LILTC.