School officially is underway tomorrow. However, I have been back to full-time-busy for two weeks now.
Why?
I do it to help me be the best library media specialist I can be for my students and staff.
This summer I was accepted into the Indiana Library Leadership Academy, which led to a week away from my family for a retreat. I was among 27 women and men chosen from a variety of libraries, including public, academic, specialized, and school. We were privileged to have the current ALA President, Maureen Sullivan, as our main presenter. I collaborated with librarians from different disciplines, looking for ways to connect and improve services for our patrons. While I was there, I connected with David Peter, Dean of Learning Resources and Technologies at Vincennes University. It so happens he is the connection I needed to make for our new East Allen University's digital library. I also met Susan Eberhardt, fellow school librarian wanting who also wants to create a Library Learning Commons.
Last week I attended IPFW's Collegiate Connection training. I will admit I just didn't feel like going. My girls had a playdate with our friends, but I knew it was important for me to know how to help my IPFW students. It end up being a great decision as I not only learned about some of the wonderful databases but also connected with several local librarians.
One evening I tuned into a Nearpod Webinear (yes, that is spelled correctly) to figure out this new iPad tool. All I wanted to do was go to sleep, but I knew I should learn about this tool. It was yet another great decision as I learned a few tips and some exciting upcoming features.
I have spent quite a bit of time over the summer on Twitter. Why do I tweet? Simple, to connect! I have had conversation with fellow librarians on best practices, commented back and forth with awesome YA authors, found links to great articles, and received tips from top world-renowned presenters, administrators, and educators.
So why do I attend meetings, webinars, and groups that are beyond my required time and duties? Because I am rarely disappointed by the opportunities to connect and learn, all of which keep me a step ahead of my students and staff!
