Navigating Two Libraries: Reflections and Resolutions

December always feels like a whirlwind, and January isn’t much calmer. Here we are, halfway through the month, and the second semester is already ramping up—hectic and stressful as ever. Balancing two middle school libraries this year has been especially challenging, but it’s also brought some clarity about what makes a library thrive.

One key realization: a strong clerk who shares your vision is invaluable. At Houston, my clerk joined me midway through my second year, and we clicked immediately. She intuitively understands how to run the library, often taking charge of creative tasks like bulletin boards and displays without any input from me. It’s such a relief not having to think about the “cute” stuff!

At Crockett, my clerk came on board last year when there wasn’t a librarian on campus. She works tirelessly to keep the library neat and ready for students, which is a lifesaver since I’m not naturally organized. However, establishing a shared vision for Crockett has been harder. Being there only every other week makes it tough to connect consistently with students, staff, and the campus culture.

The Challenges of Two Campuses

When I think about what made Houston successful, I realize how crucial weekly PLC participation was. Being present for all library visits and jumping into PLCs on a specific day each week helped me stay connected and proactive. At Crockett, this isn’t as feasible. Without a set day for PLCs or the ability to attend every library visit, it’s harder to feel in sync with the campus.

My ideal schedule? It would include a minimum of two library visits per class per grading period and a designated day on each campus for PLCs. I’ve been brainstorming ways to incorporate a weekly flex day into my schedule for next year, but striking a balance that works for everyone is tricky.

Lessons from Library PLC

Yesterday, I attended library PLC, where we shared lessons and programming across elementary, middle, and high schools. I left with several new ideas I’m excited to try, but the ongoing challenge remains: time.

Reflecting on the goals I set at the start of the year, I realize that aiming for a 5% circulation increase (on top of managing two libraries) was perhaps overly ambitious. While Crockett’s circulation is rising, not being on campus consistently to deliver book talks has made achieving this goal harder. To address this, I need to lean more on passive book promotions, like visual book lists.

At both campuses, I’ve set up document holders filled with curated book lists for students to flip through. However, I haven’t refreshed Houston’s since I first implemented it, and usage has declined. A quick refresh could breathe new life into this tool.

Looking Ahead

Displays remain a vital part of my strategy, even with Crockett’s limited space. I’ve adapted by using double-sided stands on tables and displaying front-facing books wherever I can. I’m eagerly anticipating the new building with shelves designed for my students’ height—it’ll be a game-changer for eye-level displays!

This semester, I’m focusing on refining processes, embracing flexibility, and finding creative ways to connect with both campuses. It’s a work in progress, but every challenge brings an opportunity to learn and grow.