Golden Threads
I’ll be honest: I often find myself comparing my work to that of my colleagues. Some are teaching amazing lessons or running successful after-school programs, and it’s hard not to feel like I’m falling short. But I have to constantly remind myself that someone else’s capacity doesn’t diminish my own. If you’re also managing two libraries or just starting out as a librarian, I encourage you to resist this type of thinking. While we can gain inspiration from our peers, it’s important not to use their success as a yardstick to measure our own worth.
On top of that, after-school programs haven’t really taken off at my original campus, Houston. Instead, I’ve focused on passive programming—activities that are already in place or rotate seasonally, which works well with the flow of our school. I am still feeling out what will work on the Crockett campus.
It’s especially tough when certain campuses have traditions that staff and students expect, but I’m scheduled to be at my other campus. For example, a colleague is preparing for homecoming next week, which includes a longstanding mum-making tradition. Meanwhile, I have a stack of books in need of repair, and I’m feeling the pressure because I know they won’t be done while I’m at my other location. I started a scary stories program last year in October, and I had hoped to continue it this year, but scheduling has been a challenge.
Despite these hurdles, I’m working on a few initiatives:
Online Book Fair: This year, I’m trying something new with an online book fair. The traditional fairs haven’t been as successful at Houston, and frankly, it feels counterproductive when our library serves a book desert community. Most families can’t afford the high prices, and the non-book items like pens and trinkets undermine the purpose. This online option might provide a better alternative. I'll admit I don't have high hopes for the online book fair, but am still going to give it a chance.
Book Clubs: Getting a successful book club going has been another challenge for me, but I’m not giving up. I just launched an English I book club exclusively for the Crockett GT 8th graders with The Cousins by Karen M. McManus. My predecessor left me a great stash of books, and I’m hoping to get some teachers and staff involved as well. My goal is simple: get five students to consistently attend and finish the book!
Teacher Collaboration and Digital Resources: I’m always looking for ways to increase teacher collaboration, especially when it comes to digital resources. Every grading period, I curate digital resources and share them with teachers. Right now, I’m working on materials for the 3rd Six Weeks, which I plan to send out before our upcoming Purposeful Planning day.
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