Little Library of Learning

I am an elementary school librarian in Long Island, New York. I teach my students about literature (picture books, chapter books, Caldecott and Newbery Award books, informational nonfiction, etc.) We do lessons, as well as check out books. I have a strong technology component in my program and incorporate websites, Powerpoint, and Smart Notebook into many lessons. I try to cover many curriculum areas (ELA, science, social studies, even math!). We have a large number of students with special needs, so I do adapt many lessons for them. I blog at: Little Library of Learning

I want my students to love to read! Even though I use a lot of technology, the focus of my program is still THE BOOK! I do incorporate a lot of interactive activities (whether on a velcro board or making art projects after an author study, or using audio and video clips from our library databases.) I have converted a lot of my old, pocket chart lessons to the Smart Board, so kids can get out of their seats and participate. They seem more focused when things are on the screen, even when they are the same old lessons!

I recently received the "Lesson Plan of the Month" award from the Long Island School Media Association for the library lesson: "Where Dewey Find It in the Library?" I also received a grant from that same organization to purchase Playaways (audio MP3 books), which were beyond our budget. I recently started a maker space, so received some grants for Ozobots and other items.

I have a masters in English (which is great for someone who is surrounded by literature all day) and a masters in library science. I formerly worked for corporations in New York City (what a mind-altering change my current career is)! I try to keep up with current knowledge (especially technology) through in-service courses.

I have a brown and white cocker spaniel named Kilian. He is very cute but sometimes very naughty! He does like to sit on the couch and watch TV with me, though. I blog at: Little Library of Learning