Focus - State of the Library

Traditionally librarians are asked to report what has happened in the library over the school year. The focus of these reports is usually on how many books were circulated, lost, and deleted due to age.

However, this year I focused the report on the number of classes in the library, collaborations with other teachers, and types of technology use because my overarching goal of the year was to introduce students to the skill of finding reliable sources.

Instead of going straight to Google, we retrained students to fine-tune search questions and think intelligently about where to seek out sources. I worked with fellow teachers on focusing the expectations of where, how and why students should use a source from a reputable database, encyclopedia, or ebook. Beginning their research with a focus on quality information, students were empowered to take ownership of the final product.

After reading/viewing fellow librarian Naomi Bates’ “State of the Library...,” I thought I would create an animated typographic video to relay this information because it is… ​

1. WAY cooler than a written report

2. Yet another tool students can use to demonstrate their research skills in class (Biteable is free, a student can create an account using their Google log-in, easy enough for students to learn in one sitting!)

Please take the time to watch this, I think you will enjoy!