School libraries are often seen as the quietest and most boring place in the school, however, there is much more to our library than what meets the eye. Today, the three Library Media Specialists, Ms. Stephanie Young, Mrs. Kristi Patton, and our Library Media Assistant, Ms. Tristan Schuiteboer, answer questions about their roles at the library and questions about how this section of the school operates.
Q: What does each job at the library entail?
A: The Library Media Specialist is responsible for working collaboratively with school administration, staff, and division personnel to develop a future-ready library program. The Library Media Specialist partners with coaches and teachers to support the curriculum and provides instructional leadership for the teaching of information literacy skills; develops and maintains a library collection rich in both print and non‐print materials; and manages the library learning commons as a flexible, student-centered learning environment. As library media specialists, we manage library resources, assist students and teachers, run book clubs (both student and teacher), and teach students and teachers. We strive to create a warm, welcoming environment for all SunDevils. – Patton & Young
A: As the library media assistant, I help out with whatever the library media specialists need. I have some regular daily tasks like checking books in and out, shelving, and generally straightening up the library so it’s nice and presentable. I also have some weekly tasks like sending out overdue notifications and laminating. I handle the monthly themed book displays, maintain our consistent book displays (new books, trending on TikTok, and narrative nonfiction), and monitor Makerspace. Beyond that, I do a variety of other clerical and maintenance tasks, and anything else the library media specialists may need. – Schuiteboer
Q: Other than checking out books, what is the purpose of the school’s library?
A: The primary purpose of our library is to support the school’s educational mission by providing resources, instruction, and a learning environment that fosters academic success and lifelong learning. We help students to develop information literacy skills, access diverse materials, and explore their interests, ultimately contributing to their personal and academic growth by promoting a love of reading and learning. Our SunDevil library serves as a hub for academic and personal development, offering a safe and supportive environment for students to explore, learn, and grow. – Schuiteboer.
Q: What are the most checked out books or most checked out book genres?
A: Our graphic novels get checked out the most, with fiction a close second. – Young.
Q: Why should students come to the library?
A: The Salem Library Learning Commons offers a wealth of resources, including books, makerspace, a quiet and safe space for studying, research, and socializing. We have a lot of comfortable seating that is a big hit when students are cozying up with a good book and during One Lunch. – Schuiteboer
Q: What is makerspace, and why is it in the library?
A: Makerspace is a place where students explore, design, create, publish, tinker and imagine. [SunDevils] have an opportunity to create both intellectual and physical materials using a variety of resources, [and] can choose their activity with choices ranging from games, puzzles, electronics, independent brain games, creative building, 3D printing, community service projects, arts and crafts. Makerspace is open to study block students. – Young.
A: Libraries around the country are increasingly incorporating makerspaces into their space, essentially becoming a hub for learning and making. Salem HS has had a makerspace since 2015. – Patton.
Q: Why are student art pieces displayed in the library?
A: We are proud of our students’ artwork and love to display it for all of our staff and students to appreciate. We have rotating displays of both fine arts and VPAA pieces. – Schuiteboer
Q: Is there anything else the library staff would like to say or add?
A: We welcome all of our SunDevil community to come by the library and check out all of our amazing resources.” – Schuiteboer
Our Media Specialists strive to make the library a comfortable and quiet place for students to read, create, and work.
