I may not be a librarian, but I work in a school library and today marks the start of School Library Month! When I was creating a banner for our social media pages (follow us on Twitter and Instagram!), I wanted a subtitle that really described what a school library offers. This is what I came up with:
Read
This may be obvious...but the library is full of books! Physical books, eBooks, and audiobooks. If you think reading doesn't relate to your content area - think again! Not only does the library probably have something related to your field, but even simply the act of reading will improve your students' vocabulary, their mental health, and their ability to empathize with others. If you or your students find reading to be boring...maybe you just haven't found the right book yet. Talk to the library staff - they love to find books for people! Better yet - if you are a Londonderry student or teacher - fill out the Blind Date With a Book form!
Research
Yes, the internet exists. But it is often very difficult for people (particularly students) to determine which sources are reliable and factual. Your school library provides a collection of research databases that have been vetted for accuracy AND provide MLA and/or APA formatted citations. (Here's Londonderry's list!) And as a continuation of the last paragraph, the library also features plenty of non-fiction books on a variety of subjects that can also be used for research. Don't see what you want in the collection? Just ask! Libraries exist to support students and teachers. If they have the budget to get what you need, they will.
Relax
The library isn't just a space to learn. It is also a place to just take a break and reduce your stress level. We pride ourselves on offering a friendly and welcoming atmosphere where students and staff can feel like they belong. Anyone can come in and read a book or magazine by the windows, work on a puzzle, do some arts & crafts, or chat with the library staff. Maybe you could consider bringing your class to the library once a month to just decompress. Curriculum is certainly important, but we also need to teach students strategies to manage their stress and anxiety so they can do their best work.
Reboot
Sometimes we get to a point in our lives where we wish we could go back and do things differently. Sadly, libraries have not (yet) conquered time travel, but we can help you find a new path. For teachers, maybe this means rebooting a project that didn't work or adding in new technology tools that you aren't yet comfortable with. Enter the library staff! A big part of our job is to collaborate with teachers. Let us look at your curriculum with fresh eyes and help you come up with some new ideas. We will work with you to develop lessons and projects. We are even willing to present to your classes.
The moral of this story is...VISIT YOUR SCHOOL LIBRARY! Even if you have no idea what you could possibly do there - just go. Walk in the doors. Say hello. Poke around. Ask questions. We are here to serve you - the teachers and students. A student told me the other day that they thought we looked busy, so she didn't want to bother us. Always remember...you are our #1 priority. We will literally drop everything we are working on to help our students and teachers. Help us celebrate School Library Media Month by coming to say hello. Maybe you'll get a prize. 🙂
Comments