When you picture a school librarian, what comes to mind? Perhaps it's someone shushing students amidst towering shelves of books. However, within the Enumclaw School District, our Library Media Specialists and Paraeducators expand how libraries are utilized, enriching the student experience.
Gone are the days when school libraries were simply repositories of books; they are dynamic hubs of activity and learning. ESD libraries play a crucial role in promoting digital literacy and citizenship among students. Through engaging lessons on digital citizenship and introductions to coding, they equip students with essential skills for navigating the digital landscape responsibly and ethically. Collaborative learning experiences, both within classrooms and small groups, further enhance students' academic growth and interpersonal skills, fostering a culture of teamwork and cooperation.
Activities like Book Fairs, puzzles, contests, and STEM challenges add excitement and vibrancy to the library space, transforming it into a center for discovery. Lunchtime activities range from maker spaces to games, to various clubs and quiet gatherings offering students a break from their academic pursuits while encouraging socialization and creativity. At the elementary level, staff do everything from organizing Battle of the Books competitions between schools to facilitating Enumlcaw Schools Foundation-funded robotics programs featuring Ozobots and other loaned robots; they continuously seek to ignite students' passion for learning.
Rachel Johnson, Library Media Specialist, at Southwood Elementary highlights the accessibility and versatility of libraries. “Students have access to the library during lunch recesses to collaborate, innovate, tinker, study, or explore. Students access no tech, low tech, and high tech options during Makerspace time in the library during lunch recesses.”
Books and literacy are still significant pieces of the academic puzzle and ESD Library Media staff are proud to create an environment that is both enjoyable and safe for all students. They go above and beyond by actively participating in school spirit days, fostering a sense of belonging and community among students. Additionally, they often introduce monthly and seasonal themes to enhance classroom curriculum such as Women’s History Month, March Madness, and Earth Day. By increasing circulation and access to books, library staff ensure that students have ample opportunities to explore diverse literary genres and expand their world.
Richelle Carel, Enumclaw High School Media Center Staff, emphasizes the importance of helping students feel valued. “I want to make students feel appreciated and heard, a lot of them feel no one cares, which is far from true.”
By providing a range of resources and activities, Library Media Specialists and Paraeducators play a vital role in nurturing well-rounded, engaged, and empowered students. ESD libraries have become essential spaces for exploration, collaboration, and growth inspiring students to learn, lead, and impact their community and the world.