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-Finishing genrefying my collection

-More dynamic shelving

-Promoting reading by using the school news, bookmarks, teachers, etc.

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I love the idea of celebrating students when they read. They love being recognized for their reading. In Ch. 10, it talks about making book circulation exciting. (Tops of book cases, book bundles of similar titles, etc.) I have slowly done this in my own library by creating more dynamic shelving. I have bought clear bins to put all of my graphic novels and biographies in. My biography circulation has EXPLODED since doing this! Students are more likely to search through the bins since the books are facing them and they can see what kind of biographies they are based on the label (Football Bio, Basketball Bio, Superstar Bio, etc).

I also like the idea of inserting book bubble bookmarks that say, "Choose Me."

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I have two main goals next year.

(1) Improve promoting the library and it's happenings throughout the school and out to the community

(2) Begin to transition the fiction books from the traditional shelving system to grouping books by genres to make it give it more of a bookstore vibe which will make it easier for students to find the book they want to read.

I really don't know how far I will get with either goal because next year will be a transition year for the junior high and freshman center libraries. I am truly looking forward to working with Mrs. Blythe who always has great ideas and is willing to give them a go and see what happens.

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Hack # 9 - Being completely honest here, the "global connection" {while it is probably a great idea} hack just doesn't interest me nor do I think I would be good at it...Some of it is my doubts about internet security and some of it is just my personality. Granted, it is probably an "old school thing", but if I am going to meet and have a discussion with somebody or a group to learn about them and their culture, it needs be "live and in person" for it to be really meaningful to me. I will just let you younger ones run with this hack.

Hack #10 - Lots of good ideas in this hack. Some of which I have already been attempting to do but this hack gave me some ideas to improve those "baby steps" I had taken over the last couple of years. {Love the "Ask me what I am reading" buttons idea}

I totally agree with the concept that the library collection should be books that students WANT to read and not assigned to read. Every year during my library orientation I stress to the students that the library collection is made up of their books not mine; not other teachers. I tell them about an online book request form that they can fill out {Even had flyers posted throughout the school with a QR code on it for form access} and I use those request forms to buy the books they want that are within the district's selection policy.

I also encourage them to come get me if they can't find a book and we have a discussion on what they are interested in and go from there. It's been a blast getting to know the students through these conversations and seeing them finding books they like on their own and after they finish the book talking with them about what they liked or disliked about the book.

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Hack # 7 - "Bargain Shop" ABSOLUTELY!!

When purchasing books, I always like to go to Books-a-Million and walk through the "Bargain-Priced" book section. It is always a hit or miss adventure, but I have been able to somewhat frequently find books at prices from $3.99 to $6.99 that students have asked for or maybe the library copy is worn and needs replacing. Sometimes, Amazon has great prices on the books you need..

Hack #8 - Design shirts {could be T-shirt or a nice "Polo"/collared shirt} for the media specialist and/or students to wear both at school {depending on faculty dress code} or when you or a student are either a school event or just "out and about town". Create a "brand logo" and a motto that is unique to your media center and eye-catching, so when someone sees the shirt, it may lead to a conversation about your media center and its books and services...

Hack #8 - Part 2 - Probably within the last year or two, I have realized that I needed to do a better job promoting the media center and all of its positives to the "outside world" {Robert has never been the fastest one out of the gate, but Robert gets there eventually} and some of you do a great job doing that, especially via social media...I like the idea of an e-newsletter like S'mores sent out quarterly, if not monthly. I had started doing a couple e-newsletters this past year with the idea of sending one out more frequently and more library items/news in the upcoming year.

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Both hacks were great reminders of simple things we can do to promote reading and showcase our collection. I plan to make buttons this summer "during my free time." I also want to involve students more in my collection development and programming.

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"Your relevance starts the very moment you start solving people's problems." This stood out to me because I feel I am most valued when I solve problems for others. When I am approached with an issue from a teacher, student, or even administrative staff, they are often amazed at the resources I'm familiar with and also how quickly their issue can be resolved. The more resourceful you become, the more people will seek assistance from you, which in turn will lead to more traffic in the media center for other reasons.

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There are sooooo many things I want to try next year from this book. There are tons of great ideas. I am going to take it one idea at a time, and I think I would like to start with promoting reading by promoting books in the library via our news network (PNN). We can showcase a booktrailer or a student Flip taking about a book or a teacher reading an interesting part of a book. I think students just have a difficult time figuring out what they would like to read or what's in the library they can read next or what books or genres interest them. This may help. We'll see...I will let you all know in one of the fall meetings how it is going. :)

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So, I like just about everyting in Hack 10. Promoting reading in various places around the school, "What I'm Reading" ideas, videos, etc. are all positive ways to entice students to read (find what they like to read).

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Although there were numerous sentences that stood out to me in Hack 8, This one..."One of the most important things a librarian can do is to make library materials easy for the users to find and use." is relevant to my patrons. I have junior high students, and they want to be able to find what they need without asking/getting embarrassed/overwhelmed when searching. I like the idea of genrifying (even fiction), because I ALWAYS get the question, "Mrs. Blythe, where's the _________ books?" I tell them they are all throughout the section based on who wrote the book. I think if they had the books in one section, then they would be more confident users of the library and would frequent more often.

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Vision/Goals

I would like to create a newsletter about what the library has to offer and spotlight the students and what they are reading, as well as new books in the library. I would like to try to do this at least 4 times a year.

I would like to create more signs to share information about books and create "If you like, ... then, you might like..."

This past year, I asked teachers to share their current read and/or their favorite book and take a picture with the book. I created posters for each teacher and hung them outside their classrooms. I would like to do the same thing next year but also make mini posters and hang them up in the library for a reminder to the students and for them to see all of the teachers in one place.

Next year, I want to begin weeding the fiction section next year.

I would also like to create more space for dynamic shelving.

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Goals/Vision:

1. Continue weeding fiction section and generify.

2. Create a "library newsletter" or flyer showcasing circ. statistics, spotlighting readers, listing what the library has to offer, etc.

3. Possibly create an Instagram page for the library.

4. Continue "dynamic shelving." I created a "new book/monthly theme" section this year and would like to continue with making the fiction section look more like a book store.

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This book has lots of really great ideas! I have enjoyed it a lot and will definitely be using it as a resource in the future. It has helped me to "think outside of the box" in order to implement things that will make the library program relevant and a place that students want to visit.

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"It is imperative that teacher-librarians share their library's stories. No one else will tell these stories for us, and stakeholders may never realize the relevancy of the library program."

At my previous position, I worked with another LMS and she was always saying this so it has always stood out to me as something that I need to do in this profession. It was also stated in this chapter that some people have an outdated view of the library, and we have to change that. That's why it is important to get the word out on what is going on in the library through a flyer, newsletter, social media, etc. We can tell teachers what we offer at the beginning of the year faculty meeting, but like Tessa said, they are already on information overload so doing a monthly flyer or newsletter is something to consider.

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My goal for next year is to be more focused and intentional with my media center. Each year, I promise myself that I'm going to say NO to all the added responsibilities, and keep the focus on my primary responsibility. Each year, I fail. Next year, I will attempt this again and incorporate a number of the ideas found in this book. #LibrarianFirst

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1. I began implementing some dynamic shelving this year, but would like to continue with more. First step: I need to do some weeding.

2. We have been discussing the idea of clubs with the specials teachers. I would love to have a Library Lunch Club. Eat, read, and share thoughts and ideas.

3. Create signage/labels that will make finding books easier, genre, series, etc.

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Wow! Such a good read! I have had so many Ah Ha moments and have gotten so many great, easy to implement ideas from this book. It's hard to not want to jump in and go crazy, but I will try to pace myself and roll out a few new things next year.

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"Nothing should be assumed when it comes to promoting and advocating for library programs." (p 142) This hit hard because I am guilty of assuming others feel the same way I do about the library. I assume they know about the special programs, and new book purchases, the great lessons being taught, but I'd be wrong in many cases. In the future, I will do a better job of getting the word out. I can create What's New video clips and other snip-its to push out to Google Classrooms, teacher emails, school announcements, etc. I will do a better job of inviting teachers to collaborate on lessons during flex time. I have to remember advocacy is not bragging. It's vital.

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This book study has helped provide ideas and suggestions that I can immediately begin implementing in the library. There are so many good ideas it would be hard to do all. I am going to try to implement 2-3 ideas next school year and hopefully add a few more the following year. I am glad that we have this book on hand to refer to throughout the year.

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I like the statement that say, The next time someone asks you "what's new", be ready to share, brag, invite, educate, and inspire as you share your story about the amazing library program. These hacks also suggest that you invite students to come and talk about the impact of recent programs and collaborations on their learning. Having students create flyers or short videos to share on social media would be a great way for others to view what is taking place in the library.

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1. More Dynamic Shelving - I have already ordered clear bins.

2. Participate in "global" activities and connections through the use of online platforms.

3. Create a "better" makerspace schedule so that more students can benefit and participate.

4. I am strongly considering starting a book club.

5. I am ordering more book character costumes to use around the school to promote books. Our students love visitors from book characters.

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I love all of the ideas in this book. I am glad that Hack 9 talked about "Global Connections." This is one area that I would love to participate more in next year.

The last chapter sums it up: We must create a "Reading Culture" in our schools. I am sure that I will refer back to the ideas in this book often as it is very applicable.

My problem - so many ideas, so little time... :)

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Libraries are the HEART of the school! Yes, Yes, Yes!!!

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#5 - The overall theme of this chapter reminds me to be PROACTIVE. Librarians can't sit around and wait for teachers/staff to come to them. We must get outside of our four walls and make the first move towards collaboration. Advertising what we do in the library is KEY!

#6 - I have been working on developing our Spanish collection in the library since this is a growing population in BGES. Collaborating with our ELL teacher has also been helpful in gathering resources and planning for the needs of these students.

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What new ideas have sparked for you from ch. 3 & 4?

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I got the most out of Hack 10 and celebrating reading. Several things that I read I would like to look toward incorporating in the Media Center.

If you read this, then you might like this lists.

Ask me what I am reading buttons for faculty and staff.

"Shelfie" pictures, students love to see pictures of themselves.

Celebrating reading has so much more influence when the whole school community buys in. If we can create an excitement and faculty and staff are behind it, students will be more likely to get on board. Now, can you tell me how to get my faculty and staff onboard and helping spread the excitement?

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I plan to genrefy next year.  My students are starting to actually LIKE reading, but they want to “shop” for books by genre.  I also want to make some of those “if you like this-then read that” posters.  Other ideas:

·       “Collectible” teacher bookmarks.  They will have the teacher’s Bitmoji and a book recommendation from them

·       Dynamic shelving

·       Book tasting event

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“It’s not fair that some libraries have more access to resources than others. We need to FIND ways to make it fair; we need to be advocates for OUR students.”  I successfully ran my first (and only) Donors Choose campaign after reading Chapter 7.  It was called “Our Library Needs Space (and Dinosaurs!), and I used it to purchase books to update our nonfiction section.  The space and dinosaur books were ancient, but still two of the most popular sections.  However, Ken Roberts came to our school shortly after that to say we can’t do Donors Choose campaigns anymore, so I guess that scraps that idea lol.

“Each teacher-librarian has the power to change the perception of the school library.” Chapter 8 aligns with many of my already held beliefs, like the importance of advertising what all we do in the library (not just shelving books or reading to kindergarteners).  I noticed the effect of NOT doing that this year.  I feel like I’ve had to fight for every second I’ve been given at faculty meetings to present my information.  It gets planned, then canceled at (literally, as I’m standing up to present) the last second.  I didn’t have this problem in my first two years.  The difference in the way the teachers treat me is stark.  I’m going to find ways to get my time in next year.  The teachers respect me more.

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"Don't librarians just put away books? Many educators and parents still believe the that teacher-librarian merely checks out books and puts them on the shelf. But the librarian is much more than this." (p. 139-140)

Despite the services we have shared we provide, many still look on us as a break for them, as someone who just checks in and out books, as someone that really doesn't teach. This is something I've had to overcome with my own family. I had a family member who said all you need to know are your ABCs to do your job. If only this were so! We plan and teach. Ultimately, we must be the voice that shares what we are doing, what we can do, and what we will do. I do wish my schedule wasn't so fixed where I could get into classrooms more, but until it has a bit more flex/collaboration time; I must be the one that shows how much assistance I can provide. I not the person who wants attention, but the one who is naturally hanging in the background. I must learn to move more toward the front and get the attention on the importance of reading and the importance of our Media Center.

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Institute small changes -

1. Reorganize my Kindergarten - First Grade area, making it a bit easier for students to see the books.

2. I also want to make have more dynamic shelving - especially displaying new books.

3. I tried to create a Library Advisory group with my upper grades, but I was not successful in having a set meeting day and time. It was random and students have even asked when are we meeting again? I want to get this up and going next year, and have those students provide input for book purchases and also in helping in the Media Center.

4. Lastly, try to publicize (even more that what I have been doing) what we are doing in the Media Center and what we offer. As the book stated, no one else is going to tell our learning community what we are doing, or what we have to offer. We have to make that known.

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There are many great ideas. I feel a little overwhelmed, but also reassured that it all begins with small changes that lead to big things.

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1. I would like to transform the use of space beginning with a new mobile smart board, new ways to use space and possibly adding a small green screen near the most active parts of the library.

2. I would like to add generification labels to books making popular genres easier to locate. After evaluating how students respond, I may consider genrefication of the libary.

3. As a cohesive team at South, we would like to have all programs, promotions and events established before school starts. Plans are in place to make this happen.

4. I would like to create lesson plans that increase metacognition, inquiry, and critical thinking.

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Connecting globally in Chapter 9 sounds really exciting and would yield big learning outcomes but I do have concerns about how to implement this in a manner that is safe and effective for Elementary students. I would love to know if anyone in our district is doing this so I can glean from what they have learned. I also have concerns about how to make this occur with my teaching schedule. Is it possible for all students to participate or just some of them?

In chapter 10, there are several ideas that I have wanted to try but am not sure how to maintain them with a tight schedule for teachers and myself. For example, I would like find a way to feature teacher picks as well as student picks without adding more work to teacher loads. I would need to figure out how to maintain it which may invovlve recruiting a parent volunteer to help.

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In Chapter 9, I thought the idea of the “Mystery Skype” (or ZOOM or Hangouts or whatever) was so interesting.  The idea that students in our schools here is Lee County, Alabama, could play a “guess where I am” game with students hundreds of miles away feels like a great way to open up the country to them.  They struggle with thinking outside of Alabama, and thinking globally just doesn’t happen at all.  They would love to see other students, teachers, and classrooms from far away.

Chapter 10 has so many great ideas!  I love the “What We’re Reading” posters, and the student made book trailers on the morning news.

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Looking back through all of the chapters makes me realize that their are more ideas than I have time to implement. The first thing for me is to pick 3 things that I can do easily. The first thing that I have already been working on this school year is making more signs and interesting signs for various book collections. I want to continue that next school year and add teacher recommended books and student recommended books. The second thing that I plan on doing is changing the bulletin board outside of the library. I want it to showcase students more. I want to get a small photo printer to use to print and post more student pictures of what they are doing in the library. This idea came to me after one of my first grade students built a house out of Legos. She was very proud of her interesting design and she asked me to take her picture with her house. The third idea that I plan to implement is to use the library windows to advertise and post new books and series. Students line up outside of the library to go to lunch, enrichment, music/ art, etc. The windows would be a great place for students to see what's new. One window could be for K-1 students. One window could be for chapter books. Another window could be for non-fiction books. I can also have students help me change out the advertisements and signage.

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Ch 9: One point that really stood put to me was to connect to other school buildings in our district. I think this would be great to find a way to share what we are doing with each other, not just at our monthly meetings. For example, our 4th grade students become a historical person and have a "museum" in the spring. What if other 4th grade classes at other schools have projects or creations that they could share? We don't have to connect with people in other countries to make meaningful connections. Our students and teachers could connect within our district.

Ch 10: I liked the idea of the "Ask me what I'm reading" buttons. This could be done at different times throughout the school year. I think not only would the students enjoy it but the teachers and other school staff would as well. I also like "This book was recommended by..." I always have students recommend books but I don't label that the book was a student recommended book.

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"Nothing should be assumed when it comes to promoting and advocating for library programs." (p. 142) Chapters 7 and 8 made me think about all that we do as school librarians to create interesting spaces, develop a collection that is enticing for our readers, and ways we support our teachers. Yet, I know I don't advertise all that is going on in the library. I think part of me feels like it would be bragging but in actuality it would be advertising. I have to change my mindset and find ways to promote the library.

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In addition to what Taylor mentioned:

*create a flyer to highlight resources

*create and print bookmarks

*meet with new teachers (after things settle down), visit teachers during planning to promote collaboration and use of the PMC, write personal notes and send personal emails

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This book study has definitely provided suggestions and ideas that I haven't thought of. It has motivated me to do more to get out of my comfort zone and be able to convince students and teachers to the same! Looking to use some of the ideas next year in hopes of drawing in more students, staff and admin!

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The statement "It is time to change the way people perceive the library," hits home with me. I can't tell you how many times people have said to me in conversation "you have an easy job." That's when you use your "elevator speech" that is mentioned on page 132. Honestly people have no clue that a library is now called a Media Center and what responsibilities we encounter. We are working to get the word out to students, parents and stakeholders daily that we aren't here just to check out books. I like the idea of a flyer including resources available to students and teachers even though we share this in student and staff orientation and they have access to it. Doing this at the beginning of the year when everyone has a full plate can be overload for staff and students. A flyer listing a summary of what's available may be a great reminder and grab their attention. We can email, print it and place in various areas of the school, add to our social media and information boards! Soon our stakeholders will realize we are valuable and provide an abundance of help and resoureces!

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Goals:

1. Continue dynamic shelving

2. Start and finish genrefication.

3. Promote and share our media center more frequently.

4. Continue to build our maker space section.

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HACK 9 "As teacher-librarians, we can easily share our spaces and expertise to help teachers knock down the walls surrounding the school and connect their classrooms to others around the world."

This statement stood out to me because we have worked on developing our space to accommodate flexible seating and provide unique spaces for our teachers and students. We constantly encourage and invite teachers to come use our space. When we do have classes come use our space we make sure we are available for any assistance if needed.

HACK 10 Promoting reading is little more challenging at the secondary level. By the time students get to us they are either a reader or not. We are working on transforming our shelves to dynamic shelving to promote more interest. We also use our school information boards and social media to advertise books. We have staff and students recommend their favorite books. This year we have added rotating book shelves to advertise our new books.

"I don't believe in nonreaders or reluctant readers; they are yet-to-be readers!" "The connection will happen when they discover books that speak to them, regardless of topic and reading level." These statements are so true! This is the very reason why we have been working on dynamic shelving and advertising books more frequently at the secondary level.

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"Each teacher-librarian has the power to change the perception of the school library by illustrating how the program is relevant in the present."

This statement stood out to me because we have worked hard over the past two years to really showcase our media center through social media and our school's information boards. I believe the only way to change the way people perceive the library, is to simply advertise!

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"Each teacher-librarian has the power to change the perception of the school library by illustrating how the program is relevant in the present. Many teacher-librarians may view this as bragging or feel uncomfortable talking about their activities, but if the information is student focused or teacher-centered, it will be viewed as positive commuication."

This statement hit home with me because I naturally gravitate to leading from the background. I have learned over the past two years the weight of imporance library advocacy is to the success of a highly effective media program.

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Loved Hack 5! The first thing that stood out was a sentence on page 80..."If you are excited, then others will be inspired." This is so true. Not everyone, of course, but those that you can get on board and start collaborating with...it will make a difference. So, let's get excited!

I also like the "Bagels and Books" event. This could be something every quarter to draw teachers and admin into the library to see what's new, what students have been doing, etc.

I also like the posters of teachers, Central Office staff, community members, etc. reading or showing their favorite book. I do this with two teachers per month and have them on our scrolling info board in the library, but I would like to expand it.

Hack 6: One thing that stuck with me that I do not do is advertise all the things our stakeholders have access to...students and teachers with AVL, Open Resources, QR codes to other language resources, etc. I am going to work on incorporating this into posters in each hallway.

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Hack 5: So many great ideas in this chapter. Although we introduce ourselves during faculty meetings and share orientation with available resources, teachers need more. We have many that love our space and use it, but not as frequently as we would like. I would like to try visiting teachers during their planning to promote our space and willingness to collaborate. I think the personal note idea is great! I think sending emails to individuals instead of entire staff is a great point, this may be something we need to try. We do have many discusssions with teachers, they say we are coming, we want to use this, we want to do that, but with their tight schedules they forget about us. I think these simple actions may be worth trying to see if we can spark participation. I love the idea of meeting with new teachers, but they are so overwhelmed when they arrive, we feel guilty adding anything to their plate. We make sure they are aware we are available when they get a minute to breathe!

Hack 6: We always suggest Sora/Overdrive to our students that are looking for alternatives to reading, here they can listen to a book. Our recent purchase of the ViewSonic boards have been an excellent addition for diverse learners. Students are wanting to participate and they are learning the boards faster than the staff. We are planning to add RiseVison information system to all displays and ViewSonic Boards. We have been told this will allow us to share information to everyone. We are hoping we can share book trailers, new books etc., to spark the interest of all learners.

Tessa Dunn

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Hack 3: The term Libratory is a great way to describe Media Centers today. I like the Media Center is now considered a place where all can explore their interests, it isn't just a place to read or only for those studying for college. I feel like we are heading in the right direction with our updates and chagnes, but we still have room for growth and implementation. We still run into the "time-curriculum" issue, which prevents students from being able to take advantage of the availalbe resources. I do feel like many still view the Media Center as a place to read and check out books. We have had success with collaboration when it comes to guest speakers, Club Meetings, Poetry Reads etc., but I would like to see more students visiting to utilize our many available resources. We also want our Media Center to be irresistable.....work in progress!

Hack 4: So, we have had some not so good experiences with student aides in the past and since COVID we haven't had aides. This section makes me want to consider it again to see if maybe we may have a different outcome! Each year we like to poll our students when we begin ordering books, print and digital. We want them involved as much as possible in the selection process. We get responses, but very few. We started an intagram page with the anticipation of drawing in hundreds of students, well we are a little dissapointed. Maybe involving students in the making of posts would draw in a bigger audience. Time to look for a new poster child! We want to empower our students and provide wonderful experiences!

Tessa Dunn

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I really do enjoy collaboration but it can be challenging when schedules limit opportunities. I try to be a good listener and offer new ideas at the point of need which has proven to be helpful in building collaborative relationships with other educators. Another way to improve collaborations and encourge conversations involves taking the opportunity of needed resources as verbalized by teachers. During the Ignite training, teachers really liked the experience of having black-out lessons but purchasing black lights would take a chunk out of their CIS funds. I reccommended that I should by enough sets to cover one grade level so that teachers/grade levels could check them out from the library. This ideas was well received. When they know I am here to support, it helps make the process more natural. One way I have been wanting to collaborate is to partner with our STEM teacher to create lessons that would allow her to go deeper into STEM content while also providing a greater purpose in using library/informational/digital literacy skills. We have struggled to make our schedules work out for this to occur but we are committed to continue aiming for this collaboration.

Hack 6 focused on differentiation and the value of writing. The point of writing is the perfect place to demonstrate differentation. My schoolwide PLP involves a focus on writing. This was a reminder to me that the library has great potential for providing support to the academic goals of the school at large. I plan to use book creator to instruct students on writing teacher appreciation content. This will both be encouraging to the teacher while also supporting the schools writing goals. I am not sure which route I will take but I think it would be engaging to have students write their own graphic stories/mini graphic novels, write tall tales or some other collective work. Students will be able to peer review, expand their own ideas and find motivation in reading one anothers created works.

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Overall, I enjoyed the two chapters we read.  However, I felt that they both downplayed the amount of time the suggestions presented would take.  For example, Chapter 5 has great ideas for teacher-librarian collaboration, such as bribing teachers with bagels or coffee to come into the library and see new materials and technologies.  I also appreciated the information on free national programs, such as Hour of Code and National History Day.  I found the tone off-putting, however, especially comments such as "you'll have to leave the confines of the library" (page 89).  Maybe it’s because I read this during a particularly bad week, but I feel like I don’t get to spend enough time in the library to actually do half of my library duties.  I don’t need to be coaxed out, I need more time IN.  Chapter 6 was more of the same.  Great ideas (I particularly liked the C-Pen Reader pen), but an assumption of more time than I realistically have.

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I like how it talked about having teachers make book recommendations via video. I want to start doing a news network and it would be great to add teacher book recommendations as a news segment.

I found it interesting to try collaborating through classroom visits. It makes it hard to do this with a fixed schedule. Teachers want to use library time as a “break” so they don’t utilize us like they should.

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Hack 5- One of the things that really stood out is that I don't think we often advertise what we are doing in the library. I have various events for different grade levels, but I never thought to invite other teachers to come and observe. I have been taking pictures of the teachers with their favorite book and I am going to print thiose and put them around the library.

Hack 6-Collection development and resources is a very important area for librarians. I think as librarians we make decisions about resources but the staff doesn't always know. This chapter reminded to plan ways to promote and provide instruction for not only the students but the teachers as well.

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Hack 3-There were so many great ideas in this chapter. I really like the idea of the kindness cart. We used to do service projects at my old school. Students really love doing something for others. The ideas they had for this for some of the organizations were ones I had never heard of before. However, students can create products that can go to local organizations as well.

Hack 4- Creating student leaders is important to the school. I do usually informally have students who help me in various ways. I like how they created specific job titles. This is similar to what we did as elementary classroom teachers. This would be easy to create as well. Giving students ownership of various spaces and tasks would help us and them.

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Hack 2: This is a reminder to shake up my orientation procedures and method of delivery. Every year, I have the intention of doing so, then get weighed down with other "duties and responsibilities." I need to make a deliberate and conscious effort to keep the library first in my list of tasks.

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Hack 1: I think we've all had a great head start on transforming our spaces with the COVID funds. I've also been working on a vinyl mural project in the media center to make the space more inviting. I do need to continue weeding and re-organizing my informational text section.

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Hack 6: I had previously advertised new books on our TV displays, but stopped. I am going to restart this practice since we now have additional TVs mounted and instead of just focusing on new books, I will also feature books that have great content, but may get overlooked or have fewer checkouts.

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Hack 5: I would love to see a collaborative project across a grade level or subject areas. Everyone is so consumed and stuck inside the walls of their individual classrooms. I think students would learn more and retain more information on a subject if there was a collaborative, culminating event that crossed curriculums.

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Chapter 3 talks about makerspaces.  It’s a phrase that’s been thrown around a lot, but I haven’t taken the plunge on it yet.  I plan on playing around with my schedules to see if it could be possible.  Chapter 4 had good ideas about transforming students into student leaders.  I particularly liked the idea of allowing students to lead discussions or hold classes on topics that interest them.  I think the kids would love that!

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Hack #5 - Promote the media center, its services, and yourself to the faculty. I am constantly talking to teachers {at least those who seem to want to try something} about bring their classes to the media center to work on projects and even offered to let them show a movie {approved, of course} on the media center's huge screen. I have been sending a newsletter to teachers {and students}, but I need to be more consistent with that. I also like seeking book and "services to be offered" suggestions from the faculty, so they get a survey too. I think it's just as important for the teachers to buy into what the media center has to offer as the students.

Hack #6 - Be a resource of assistive technologies as well as non-English print resources and hi-low books for teachers. Be able to train them on new technology that can transform study materials to levels that are appropriate of a student's learning style and ability. Lee County has done a great job of this with Ignite training to take back to the school's faculty. "One size" of instruction no longer fits every student and if teachers were aware of some of the new assistive technologies, they might be less stressed as well as the students and everyone's a winner.

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Robert -  {Does NOT like being in pictures or videos}

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Robert -  {Does NOT like being in pictures or videos}

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Hack #3 - MakerSpaces - Great idea. I have bought into it {actually a couple of years ago}. I have started small with robotic kits, board games, and big paper easels with markers and ink to allow students to come to the media center to create whatever they are feeling that day. Recently, two English classes scheduled the Media Center makerspaces as a place to create masks based on their studying Romeo and Juliet. It has been "baby steps" to get students and teachers to view the media center as a "makerspace", but I keep promoting it through conversations. The biggest pushback has been "How can I fit this in when the schedule for teaching particular standards is already tight?"

I did like the idea of using the media center's makerspace area and supplies to make community service "gifts".

Hack #4 - Students do need to feel empowered to guide the direction of the media center's selection among other things.

Each year I spend time with individual students and classes just talking to them that this is "their" media center" not mine. I need to know what types of books do they want in the collection. I email them a reading and book choice survey to get feedback on what they like and tailor my book purchases to that. {Faculty gets one too}. Sometimes, a student will tell me about a book they love. I will ask them do they think it would be a great addition to the collection. If they do, I get them to fill out an online book purchase form.

I do use student media center aides to assist in running the media center. I tell them they are "The Face of the Media Center", so they need to be friendly and knowledgeable of what books that might interest another student.

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I really like the idea of the bulletin board. I am thinking of doing something similar like Jill and gear it towards the NEW YEAR and have the teachers and students get involved by maybe writing what their current read is and what is next on their "to be read" list...Reading Goals for 2024...I could even include QR codes for books "to be read" to help spark the interest for students. This would be a great way to encourage book talks and for students and teachers to talk with each other about books.

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Library programs should provide ways to bring innovation into the library. Libraries can be dynamic spaces that engage and inspire students and teachers by integrating technology, interactive activities, and creative projects. Don’t sit back and wait for teachers to come to you, go to them. Entice them with snacks, coffee, and goodies to get them in the library. Promote yourself and the library.

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On pg. 101 where it's talking about advertising, I also thought of displaying teachers and the books that they have read this year. I sent out a Google form earlier this week to poll the teachers and got quite a few responses!

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I liked where it was mentioned to invest in a coffee maker to increase traffic and conversation that may lead to a collaboration. I have recently thought about doing this!

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This wasn't explicitly stated, but what stuck with me the most was promote and share. I need to continually remind my community what we have to offer. Teachers forget what we have subscriptions to, what I have on the shelves, and how those services (and me) can help.

After viewing the student project demonstrations at GaETC, it reminded me that students can accomplish MUCH provided with opportunities to learn. Those hands on opportunities will be the ones that will be remembered.

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Quote from page 80 - Collaborations allow your students to view media specialists/librarians as part of the teaching team. When collaboration occurs, it turns the library into an extension of the classroom.

It amazes me that some people (students and unfortunately teachers) do not see us as teachers. Recently, I had a friend who did not realize that I do lesson plans and plan lessons.

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The author's suggestion to get book recommendations from teachers reminded me of a bulletin board idea I saw where teachers are photographed while reading their favorite book so that only their eyes are showing. Students are to try and guess who the teacher is.

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Kelly: Chapter 5- Leaders in the Library

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Kelly: Chapter 5- Leaders in the Library

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I have student library assistants that help with circulation and shelving, but often other students show interest in helping, as well. I like the idea of having students adopt a shelf and enable them to help out in that way.

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I also liked the statement in Hack 2 that said, "It is a school librarian's mission to shatter the idea the the library is only for a small portion of the student population." Most students think that the library is only for checking in and out books. It's our job to change that assumption and provide an environment for all students--not just the ones who read regularly.

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Hack 1:
A takeaway from this hack for me was where they talked about a library being like a business where you need to satisfy the needs of your customers. It says, "start considering the customers if you're going to attract them." It's just a reminder that we must create a welcoming and safe environment that students want to visit.

Hack 2: I liked the idea of creating a mission statement for your library. I have never thought about that before, but having one would clear up questions about what the library is about and what it can offer students.

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Make Orientation Memorable:
One of the school staff recently said to me that I needed to have an orientation session for parents as well as students. She told me that she noticed that my role as the school librarian is far bigger than she even realized. She pointed out that what parents think of as our role is not an accurate picture of what we do now. I have orientation for the students. I think it would be great to have a fun interactive session with parents as well. Is anyone in our group conducting parent information/ orientation sessions?

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HACK 1: You're not an archivist, this statement really makes you think. Research and the ability to analyze the collection through software definitely make weeding an easier process. We are able to explain why it was necessary to those giving pushback. Change must take place and the title Media Specialist and Media Center are the best reminders. Updates of the space will also need to take place. These changes don't always have to cost a fortune. DIY's are great options and we need to learn how to use available resources and gain assistance from CTE when funding isn't readily available.

HACK 2: The library only interests a small part of the student population-we are working hard on changing this steroptype. We continue to look for ways to reach ALL of our students. I like the idea of using a Google Classroom (a majority are familiar with this and access it daily) or Remind to reach students if this is an option with the number of students we serve. I believe I recall there being issues using Remind in the past due to the number of users?

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Hack #1
Like many have already mentioned, my takeaway from Hack #1 was that I need to focus more on weeding.  When I first came into the library, I weeded hundreds of books - many from the 1980s or earlier.  My shelves are still packed with unloved books, however.  Many shelves are so packed the students have trouble getting the books on and off the shelves and books are getting damaged.  I want to weed and make room for dynamic shelving in all parts of the library.  I store the graphic novels using face-out dynamic shelving, and I absolutely cannot keep them in the library!  I want that kind of excitement about the other sections of the library, and I think I can generate interest by weeding enough to have room for more face-out shelving in the other sections.

Hack #2
I really thought about our school's policies on lost or damaged books after reading this hack. One procedure I have changed is that I am now giving parents the option to replace a lost or damaged book instead of paying for it. A book may have cost $25 when it was new, but the same book may now be $10 on Amazon or even Wal-Mart/Target (even hardback books). I see no reason for parents to pay the original cost - I would prefer to have the book anyway, instead of taking the money and then taking the time to reorder the book. I've had one parent take me up on it so far, and she bought an even better quality book than the one that was lost! I thought it was a win-win for both of us.

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Hack #1 - I love flexible seating and creating collaborative areas in my library.  I never thought about using hospital trays that move up and down for flexible work areas.  I plan to check with hospitals for a possible donation of one or two!    Plus the non-stick tape!
Hack #2 - My goal is to work to create more opportunities for including the "community" in my library, while keeping the students as the main focus!!

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Hack 1:
I loved the idea to design a cubby system to house students belongings while they browse. This would be great since some classes go straight to lunch from library and bring their lunchboxes/drinks  with them.

Hack 2:
One take-away for me is to communicate more effectively with parents, perhaps through Remind or with a monthly newsletter.

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Hack 1 - I loved this quote, "You are a school librarian, not an archivist."  If someone doesn't want something, they think I need to house it in the Media Center.  If I weed books, the question asked is, why are you getting rid of those books?  We have to remind our community that yes, we are a hub for many resources, but we aren't a museum.  Weeding is an area I struggle in, but this quote really spoke to me.  I'm not just discarding outdated things, I am making space for new resources.   

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Hack 1 - I loved this quote, "You are a school librarian, not an archivist."  If someone doesn't want something, they think I need to house it in the Media Center.  If I weed books, the question asked is, why are you getting rid of those books?  We have to remind our community that yes, we are a hub for many resources, but we aren't a museum.  Weeding is an area I struggle in, but this quote really spoke to me.  I'm not just discarding outdated things, I am making space for new resources.   

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Hack 2 - I liked the punch/sticker card idea to get students to return books. The way my schedule runs I find it extremely hard to get overdue notices ran with any regularity. This type of incentive may help in not only getting more books returned, but it could also help with getting books into the hands of our reluctant readers. Some will read if there is a reward involved.

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Hack #1

Our opportunity a couple of years ago to add to/change the library space falls right along with transforming and designing a multiple purpose space that is welcoming to all.  I think it is effective to have the library sectioned off to meet the various needs of the students and staff. In addition to arranging the space, the books should be current and not outdated. This takes time especially if it hasn’t been done in years. This is an area that I would like to focus more on throughout the year.

Hack #2

Change the library perception for this day and time.  We are here to serve our students and staff. Treat patrons like customers-- make their experience pleasant so they will want to come back.

Including digital information and communication for the students, staff, and community to be aware of what is going on is important to maintain or gain interest in library.

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Hack 1: Being that this is my first year, everything was an "ah-ha" moment for me! One huge job I have started to tackle this year is weeding... When I read this in the book, I was excited that I am already starting to get on track! This is going to be a huge undertaking, but I am excited to get the library organized in a way that is visually appealing to the students and get rid of some of these books that have never been touched since 2011 :')

Hack 2: If you know me, you know I like order and this has been one of my biggest struggles so far in the library. I loved how Step 3 was "Run a well oiled machine." I am trying to figure out what works best for each grade level and what procedures to follow for each grade. I am used to only have 2nd graders, so trying to manage 7 different grade levels can be challenging. I have had to tweak things here and there each week. It is still not perfect, but slowly working to get the library to be a well oiled machine!

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Hack #1: One take away for me was how important it is to make the Media Center space welcoming. Making it a place where staff and students want to be. The Media Center is the heart of the school, I think getting feed back from staff and students is a great idea, that way your patrons will feel included in the transformation and changes within THEIR Media Center.
Hack #2: Takeaway: We are serving patrons. They are our customers, rather than just co-workers and students. We are here to serve patrons needs :)

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Hack #1 - One take away for me was actually a "two part-er" If one "inherits" a library that has the same layout for the last 2-3 decades, definitely, transform the space. Get feedback from both students and faculty and transform the space that will meet their expectations and needs. I think the biggest transformation is to make the library feel more spacious as well as having various seating configurations available. In my makerspace areas, I now have tables with wheels that can be easily rearranged to fit what a class needs and I have "comfy" seating for my reading area. 2nd Part - It will take some time {Man, does it take time},but definitely weed out outdated and unread books....Also, consider replacing books that are read with copies with newer, updated covers. NOBODY reads "paisley cover" books anymore..Yes, I gave away my age on that one! :)

Hack #2: Yes, change procedures and local {not district} policies that are outdated or
just simply do not meet the students and faculty needs. The biggest one I changed was no longer charging fines for overdue books. Research has shown fines really don't bring the books back on time. In fact, it seems to have an opposite effect because students may not have the money to pay the fine, so they keep the book. Here at SSFC students are not charged a daily fine, but after 30 days the book is marked lost. The student is contacted. They have to either return the book in good condition or paid the replacement cost of the book. I think that is fair.

I like the idea of some type of communication {website, newsletter, etc} to keep students, faculty, and community aware of library happenings. I am not sure how much web traffic the Media Center's school website gets, so I am going to try to send {hopefully} a S'Mores newsletter quarterly starting next quarter to see how well that works.

I like the use of "remind" for overdue books, but I need to learn how to make that work.

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Hack #1: This is the beginning of my second year in the South library so weeding is something I've not yet done. In transforming the space, I would like to analyize my collection and consider doing some weeding. In addition to weeding, it would be beneficial to genrefy as it would motivate students to read a wider variety of titles within their interest range and help them to locate selections. In addition, there are some technology items that I would like to improve such as tools for creating news content.
Hack #2 One updated policy that I would like to try is to set up a self checkout station for my students. LMS on social media have found it to be successful in the elementary grades. If anyone in the district is doing this, I would like to learn what has helped make it successful.
Also, I could make use of the ideas in the hacks to keep books from slipping around on carts and shelving. This is a constant challenge. It would be helpful to find a solution to solving a shelving issue as my shelves have a piece of molding in the back that causes the books to get stuck.

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I am teaching my elementary kids to do self checkout. I bought enough shelf markers for every student in the school, then printed their patron barcode and put it on the shelf marker. I store them in baskets - one basket for each day of the week - and sorted within the basket by classes. The shelf markers are color coded by grade to make it easy for me to see which class I need. I pass the shelf markers out when it's time to browse for books. When students are ready to check out, they come to the circulation desk and scan their patron barcode on the shelf marker, then scan their books. They know to leave the shelf marker on the circulation desk, take their books, and go sit back down. I'm not to the point of letting them do it completely on their own - I stand nearby and watch - but so far, even kindergartners can do it. They also enjoy it!

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HACK 1: One takeaway for me was the anti-slip tape to keep the books from sliding on the cart and the shelves. I love this because it keeps everything looking nice even when you are too busy to go over and straighten the books.
I have ordered some and will be applying it before our next meeting.
HACK 2: An "ah-ha" was "A library is not just a place, it is a service...the better the experience...the more likely they  are to visit again.
A takeaway is to create an infographic of annual data.

Also loved the idea of Remind to send out info to students (could post Remind code around school and create a flyer to give out with schedules at the beginning of the year).