Yesterday, while hectic and crazy, was one of the best days I've had in the library this year. Every period was filled with research, collaboration, projects, and a great deal of productivity. And yet, my absolute favorite part of the entire day was watching the faces of students when they realized that all of the new book purchases came from their recommendations lists. To see their eyes light up as they saw the names of authors they love and the titles of books from series they enjoy, validated everything I strive to do in the library. More importantly, the students now feel a sense of ownership for their library. I LOVE IT!
It's important to give our students opportunities to take the lead and make decisions. I know... giving up control is difficult, but absolutely necessary if we truly want to prepare our students for the world that awaits them when they leave the safety of our schools. No amount of promotional paraphernalia can produce the results that I saw from the students when they realized their voices had been heard and their choices mattered. Isn't this what education is supposed to be about?
Not only does our library have new and exciting titles specifically recommended/requested by students, but also the students now see the library as theirs, not mine. It's a great day to be in the library. Come check it out!
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