#TXLchat Archive
The #TXLchat provides a forum for Texas librarians (but not limited to Texas librarians) to create collaborative connections, share educational resources, and foster life-long learning.
Tuesday March 22, 2016
Ready for w/ & as our special guests to talk transforming your school library!
Welcome to all! I am your lead moderator tonight w/ & Tell us who you are!
Jean D. Bringing moonwalking excitement tonight! ES librarian from Sugar Land, TX. Hi Everyone! š¤
Hey y'all. Ashley, library media specialist, from Arkansas joining in tonight!
Sara, Elementary Librarian in San Antonio, TX
Nancy Jo from in Frisco! Ready to talk library transformation!
Michelle Griffith from Brazosport ISD
Hello, I'm the Lee JH Librarian in Copperas Cove
Linsey Taylor, elementary librarian
Sharon from East Texas ready to chat w libns frm everywhere Plz use both hashtags 2nite.
Nicole, High School librarian from Fort Worth, TX
Hi , I'm Len, a recovering ms & hs librarian, now school program coord. in Austin
Hi, I'm Cynthia Lopez from Mesquite ISD and a library practicum student at TAMUC. Great to be back tonight!
Hi, I'm Cynthia Lopez from Mesquite ISD and a library practicum student at TAMUC. Great to be back tonight!
Hi! Elementary librarian in Frisco ISD
Also lurking on tonight from Iowa!
Dana, MS Library Media Specialist, happy to join from Sugar Land
Sonja, HS Librarian from awesome Nacogdoches! ready to TRANSFORM with y'all!
i'm deven, from dallas! i'm a first year librarian and in my final graduate semester at tamu-c.
Hi everyone! Excited to be here
Q1: What does Transform Your School Library mean to you?
Jessica from Montgomery 5th grade librarian
Sarah here from Fort Worth
Erin Segreto, Education Consultant, librarian, and book junkie from :-)
Hey there! Great to be here!!
Hi guys! Kara from Grapevine here! Elem lib
A1 changing my real and virtual space to be the best it can be for Ts and Ss. A place to learn, share, grow, & explore!
Hello, friends! Ready to learn with all of you!
A1 Being in a constant state of change by responding to & meeting the needs of my Ts & Ss.
Q1 Transforming My Library means breaking stereotypes, giving kids access, comfort, inclusion, and a voice
A1 To me it is a mindset! Libraries are a place to celebrate reading, curiosity, inventing and making!
a1: transforming the library doesn't always need to be physical...sometimes you need to change how the facility is perceived!
A1:TYL means doing those "wild-dreams" lessons that mk coming to the library the best day of their lives! The 's the souvenir!
TSYL means becoming a learning commons and not a book warehouse
A1: changing all the time to meet the needs of Ss and Ts. Never static
A1: Transformation = a purposeful change. First mindset, then space, collection, programming, etc. To meet the needs of our tribe!
A1: changing things for the better, rather than just for a change
A1: Trying new things and not sticking to the same old stuff. Taking risks! Using the students interests as your guide.
A1: Making your library a better place in ways that meet the changing needs of learners!
A1 to it me means being flexible to meet the needs of students and teachers
a1: today after school, i had students browsing, playing math games online, shelving, and so on--to an outsider (1/2)
Q2: Do you think libraries should be in a constant state of transforming?
A1 Transforming your library means to keep changing to meet the needs of the community you serve.
Brandee Smith- middle school librarian in Houston
A2: Think of TYL as flowing water. Do you want H2O fr a rushing stream or a stagnant pond? Transform like water; it's how you grow.
A2: Absolutely! That is what makes the library the best place in the school!
a1: the library looked like a bustling hub of activity, instead of a static, stolid room. i want my library to be energetic! (2/2)
A2 doing the best for Ss means always updating...not necessarily BIG changes. Doing what is best in the moment. Monitor & adjust!
A2: I think active libraries change daily! We are always growing and learning!
A1 It means truly connecting to Ss and finding ways to inspire them to love learning using the myriad of tools out there today.
We love that transformation is as individual and unique as the environment and students needs
A1: Transforming your library means making purposeful changed that create a place that Ts and Ss want to spend time in.
Q2 Because we are in the service industry and if we don't change to meet the needs of Ts and Ss we may cease to be relevant
A1: My library transforms from class to class to meet the needs of stu, teachers, parents. I constantly revamp library set ups
A2 if we r going 2 mt the needs of Ts & Ss which means we have 2 mt them where they r then yes we have 2 transform
A2: Great question! Not necessarily constantly transforming, but constantly asking "What if..." of ourselves, our Ts, Ss, admin.
A2 Of course! Every single day is different! And no week, month or year is ever like the last-and that's a good thing!
A2: Student voice is key to knowing their needs
Make sure & respond to the Q with an A1 A2 etc ;-D
Yes, since we are the heart of the school, and schools are always changing, so should we. https://t.co/lldweA7M4O
Q2: Do you think libraries should be in a constant state of transforming?
Hi this is Gordon! I m helping genrify a middle school this week
A1 Also I'm really sick of the shushing librarian stereotype, working to transform this image
Here finally yaya a2- yes, our libraries should always be transforming to fit the needs of our Ss and Ts
A2 Yes, continually. Stagnant programs become obsolete/fail to provide our Ss with the framework needed to navigate change.
A2: The library should lead the school in all aspects of learning. We must constantly re-evaluate and transform.
A2: I think any system that isn't in a constant state of transforming is in danger. Change = growth. Stagnant=no long term benefit.
A2 I think students need to count on a welcoming safe space that always strives to challenge them.
A2: Libraries that always transform always have something new for Ss to discover. A dynamic space reflective of its unique patrons.
A2: To meet the needs of the ever-changing learners on the campus, ABSOLUTELY!
very carefully lol and with a LOT of coffee!
A1 TYSL is something constant.As our students change their needs change and we should change to support them
A2: I think libraries that are not transformative become unimportant in the lives of Ts and Ss. Be bold & make changes!
Would love details about your procedure to genrefy. We are too!
Q3: What kinds of things have you done or what kinds of things are you doing to transform your library?
A3: We must get Ss and Ts to consider the library as more than just books, we recently did really big in our LMC!
We are a concierge service of a vast array of literacies. the very nature of our business req.constant transformation.
Libraries should always have a constant movement so that if is always relevant to the students
A2: Yes, constant state of transformation. I quickly switch book displays to match the needs of each age group.
A3: genrified my fiction, added a makerspace, moved computers to make a better teaching area, getting comfy seating for Ss
Exactly what I meant by the rushing water vs pond! Lol! š https://t.co/MuKFC6CUPb
A2: I think any system that isn't in a constant state of transforming is in danger. Change = growth. Stagnant=no long term benefit.
A3 We are genrefying! Our Ss can't wait until its done! They have been helping...some! ;-D
A3a: I advocate for Ss every chance I get! They're social mogul wannabes. I use their zeal for to promote literacy.
A3 updating physical space-VERY primary wall decor will go 4 something student-designed. Added comfy reading areas. Moving comp lab
A3; A concierge service? You bet because we know how to direct knowledge attainment at its highest level.
A3: We eliminated the secluded library office and moved my desk to the library floor. Office is now
A3 Moving shelving adding flexible furniture gives our Ss the spaces they need for all of the activities that we support.
A3 creating comfortable spaces, maker area, access to tech help, new tech, and K-cup bar are all ways we are transforming
A3: We have clubs- we've had a writing club the past 3 yrs and currently have a Minecraft club.
A3 flex schedule, makerspaces, digital resources, collaboration with Ts, better furniture, and hopefully more if bond passes :)
Actually I used the Genrefying service. It has been AMAZING! :-D
A3. genrefy, makerspace, tech-friendly hub (with charging stations), noise level is different according to needs
But how to create fast and lasting change, that's the real question. How can we make the "change" stick?
A3: We have created a maker-culture in all of our elementary libraries. Students can learn, read, create, & collaborate!
A3: opening up more space for comfy seating groups, more laptops, genrefying, creation station (in process)
A3. cozy reading areas, common work areas, color stations,board games
A3 moved tables & shelves 4 better flow, weeded like crazy, took down old broken mini blinds, brighten up the space, added rugs
A3 has also been a huge part of my current & my last library!
Things like that make all the difference! :-D
There's the $10,000 question. Have to try lots of things and see what drives passion and learn from the epic disasters
A3: Another fun thing is getting into book fairs- costumes, themes and contests! We even had a Zombie Barbie decorating contest!
Right?!?! They love to color! :-D
Q4: What ideas or innovations are you currently considering to transform your library?
A3: We have created a maker-culture in all our elementary libraries. Students can learn, read, create, & collaborate!
I'm having a weeding & painting party this summer! Recruiting help from Ts friends now!
A3: A library website is your new front door. Give it lots of curb appeal.
I LOVE this idea! But where would I put all my "stuff"??? lol š
A3- not physical part of library, but we transformed books by adding a big eBook collection the past 2yrs https://t.co/PP0b4wr2eD
Be involved in everything! Getting speakers (f2f and skype) to support the learning in the classrooms this yr.More than just books!
A4 we are creating a media center by moving the comp lab into library space. All library & media classes will be in one space.
that's what I did. I bought all my friends & family lunch. :)
Shameless self-advocacy & librarian as part of campus leadership team. Actively engage w/all depts. https://t.co/VOEqV68Irj
But how to create fast and lasting change, that's the real question. How can we make the "change" stick?
A4: Working on a markerspace for next year. Just got a grant! Accepting ideas now! ;)
A4: I want to create a . Ss film footage >5min in various genres to give chronological perspectives of their lives.
A3 we are adding new programming, Makerspaces, coding, after school groups, what the Ss ask for more than books
If you feed them, they will come!
A4: Allowing students to play a bigger role in creating programs. Adding Student Tech teams to secondary libraries.
A4: What's next after makerspaces? Looking for leading edge. Let's get on the bandwagon now.
A3. Late start -Sorry. (Hi everyone). Coding is what I'm concentrating on for this Q
it starts with us. we have to be consistent and keep up with the changes. https://t.co/UzzBIIODeQ
But how to create fast and lasting change, that's the real question. How can we make the "change" stick?
A4 Getting our Maker Club up & going and having video game tournaments in the library!
I love my office. not giving it up. need place to store lock-upables at night, etc. instead...(pt. 1)
A3: Makerspace cart, book displays, coloring, Legos, board games, collaborative work space, self checkout
A4: Thinking about ways to get families and the community more involved in the library. Family maker day?
Make sure kickback is given to those librarians that inspired the theft! Kind collaboration! Lol! š https://t.co/twWdl1NhP1
A3 We just had a Wii Bowling tournament for and now we have kids wanting to schedule other gaming tourney
I have added signs and displays to my mentor library. The kids seem to appreciate it
I hear had a ton on VR/AR, which can be done on the cheap, like cardboard!
A4: Saw cool idea of adding a "reflection booth" to a campus, where students record video reflections. Library would be GREAT spot!
A4 I listen to my students. What are they curious about? What do they want to research and invent? Planning for next year now!
(pt.2) I share my office with my kids. sometimes they need a more quiet, spot to breathe, work, think
What about a Make & Take night with a craft that works into current classroom unit? https://t.co/nHioR63qgD
A4: Thinking about ways to get families and the community more involved in the library. Family maker day?
A3 Genrefying, variety or comfy seating, makerspace, working on opening floor plan and adding flexible interactive layout
A4 adding a computer club
(pt3) and it is a calming spot for those with anxiety or who just need to conference semi-privately
A4 We have just begun our journey into the Maker Movement, so finding the best ways to meaningfully expand opportunities there
That is a great idea! I invited the community in, and I was overwhelmed by how much they LOVED volunteering https://t.co/s88LyXvrKK
A4: Thinking about ways to get families and the community more involved in the library. Family maker day?
A4. New library is in the plans for us. Hard implementing anything of cost right now.
Doing a once a week Maker Activity after school! https://t.co/t2LUCl9kq8
Q4: What ideas or innovations are you currently considering to transform your library?
GREAT idea! I'm like NEVER in there. Someone should be! ;-D
Becky, Dist Lib Coor, Leander ISD, late to š
We bought a green screen kit and we are going to teach the kids to use DoInk to make their own videos.
Q5: How can you involve your Ss & in your library transformation?
A4: I categorized my picture book section to help give my little Ss independence. Considering genrefying. https://t.co/EVJgBEqweK
that's awesome! When I had one students always felt like they were "interrupting" me. No..please interrupt!
will provide supplies for bird houses, tool box kits, etc.
The awesome & just brought me some! yes, they are the best! https://t.co/JBYjXz2apT
I hear had a ton on VR/AR, which can be done on the cheap, like cardboard!
we actually started with the and added the books later!
A4: Open access, expanding , helping libs learn about & use ESSA legislation, and bringing TX standards into this decade!š
We keep promoting the libraries,making sure we are invaluable to our schools.We make a difference for our Ss
Loved how used the book Make Writing in her library with her students & makerspace!
that's such a good idea! i know what i'm doing next 6 weeks https://t.co/g5L7pCZe2n
Doing a once a week Maker Activity after school! https://t.co/t2LUCl9kq8
Q4: What ideas or innovations are you currently considering to transform your library?
A4: I would like to implement a writing club of some sort. I have several writers I would like to encourage.
A5 having Ss design the repaint. Give a Ss survey EOY to improve for the next year & get ideas.
A5: Survey them. I'm guessing comfy seats, flexible spaces, wifi printers, noisy/quiet zones & cafe snacks. https://t.co/T33Sr3JBVq
A5-Rethinking traditional library offices, changing to recording studio
A5: Survey them. I'm guessing comfy seats, flexible spaces, wifi printers, noisy/quiet zones & cafe snacks. https://t.co/hCAhszmX3K
A5b in some lessons for 5th & 6th graders. Give them the choice in research
Awesome! Your students will love it! You can easily create a "Green Screen Team" and pass over PSA duties to them!
A5 I started tech club and book club at lunch. They are in charge! I just facilitate!
A4-creating workspace in library workroom instead
Oops! Meant to tweet from this account, not
Beyond the physical space, what can we add or remove, think of what the S's want to feel relevant & part of the future, now!
I like a S advisory board. It gives kids a leadership role.
A5: Listen to them, greet them, talk to them, make them feel a part of the school. Follow through with their ideas.
A5 I like 2 ask the Ss who r I. The 2 clubs I have what they'd like 2 c in the library
i was fortunate in that someone had already placed stickers like these in the nonfiction section of my campus library!
A4: Include teachers as makerspace experts: photography, coding, DIY, etc. Ts have talents beyond classroom to share with Ss.
A5 Asking Ss what they want and ask for their help, had a Ss today ask to do a display and I told her absolutely yes
Have students write proposals and/or submit ideas for Maker Activities of what they want to try https://t.co/LOCKGiV4nx
Q5: How can you involve your Ss & in your library transformation?
A5: sort of like genius hour in the library! I love it. https://t.co/uJcH2lC3R7
A5b in some lessons for 5th & 6th graders. Give them the choice in research
A5: I have a student purchasing program who help me pick out books Ss want in the library using rewards.
A5: I have 4 student initiated & led clubs at so my Ss control all aspects of the library programming!
A5: ASK them! Talk to your students & don't make purchases w/o them! From books to maker items to furniture. Let them have a voice!
That is our goal for next year, we did video announcements for the first time during and they went great!
A5c I also have a book request option on the website for Ss to request the purchase of books.
A5 student-led clubs, surveys, book requests.
I always ask the students what they want. It is their library!
A5 it's impt that students feel comfortable voicing their opinions. I love when kids tell me what they like and want!
A5- led Student Focus groups to get feedback on library space, resources, additions
A4: our is opened all day for kids to come and go. Would like some structured time for lessons and activities.
I have "signs L in my non-fiction sections to help Ss find Dogs, Sharks, dinosaurs, army, etc.
Implement "genius bar" w/Ss experts. Have Ss aides assist with library lessons. Give Ss charge of displays. https://t.co/kxd35O17bJ
Beyond the physical space, what can we add or remove, think of what the S's want to feel relevant & part of the future, now!
Writing proposals = real world learning. Love this!!!
A5: My poems for are coming from Ss this year. They said, "Use our poems!" Your lib has listened!
A4 we are reaching out to community members to help in our Makerspaces. One lady came 4 wks to teach crochet.
So impressed w student-designed lib. Would love a rept of decisions made.
Well, looks our time is coming to an end! Please let me or know if you have any Q's about the movement!
Awesome! We are having a poetry slam!
A5-shared an invitation example earlier today & I'm wanting to blog about this
Our site is growing and packed full of eclectic ideas for future growth
Thank you all for participating tonight & sharing all your passion & ideas for Transforming Your School Library!
Great chat tonight! Great conversation about rethinking school libraries! https://t.co/CtAxC0r6ix
Well, looks our time is coming to an end! Please let me or know if you have any Q's about the movement!
Loved the chat 2nite. So many ideas. Will archive ASAP. Will tweet & post to tlc.
Student board of directors - Ss shape future of their library.
Our contributing advocates are what make MackinTYSL a go-to source for current helpful info
A4. Makerspace is hard because of student time constricts and must ride bus after school. Ideas?
My librarians shared it was under-utilized space. Better served for other things
A4 we are also looking at the new libraries being built & their impact on the students. Student voice!
Thank you for all the great ideas and encouragement! Now to implement at least 1 new thing!
Love that idea! Peer instruction = student empowerment!
Many thanks NancyJo for. Making this happen!
pumped up and ready to be TRANSFORMERS, y'all!!!
Is there more info about this? This is a new thing to me; I'm a bit behind š
Do you have a homeroom type period they could use or lunch time? https://t.co/I6GfAyXYG1
A4. Makerspace is hard because of student time constricts and must ride bus after school. Ideas?
A5 student surveys of what they want or the interests they have. Create programming around that Ss voice
Not gonna lie. I kept the Keurig and the microwave in my "closet" Had to.
Thanks for letting me crash tonight. Join AR School Librarians this summer for a great conference! https://t.co/UZ7z7PmX1h
Thanks for letting me crash tonight. Join AR School Librarians this summer for a great conference! https://t.co/UZ7z7PmX1h
Great conversation! Can't wait for the next one!
I do mine during their recess. One grade level a day (1st-5th)
a5: students helped genrefy our new fiction collection. Suggestion box and wishlist for our next order. https://t.co/ng4E774a6d
is trending! ROCK IT, BABY!
so glad to have you here!
Many thanks , & for a great chat tonight! I am so inspired by everyone!
Great chatting! I got great ideas! https://t.co/P4N3meifxs
Well, looks our time is coming to an end! Please let me or know if you have any Q's about the movement!
our middle school has intervention time. If grades are good and they have a trust card they come during that time
yes! I am working on getting local makers,in to do sessions.
You did a wonderful job moderating tonight! I swear minutes are 120 seconds on nights! It flies like a hyperdrive!
Great conversations! So excited about all the transformations
I sponsor several student-led clubs. It's nice to just facilitate and help but not plan for it.
We did a few interviews using . They have neat backgrounds and great editing features.
nice. I have given up most of my work space.
A3 Collaborate w/tchrs planning & reflecting. This week we're inquiring about guided reading https://t.co/chy0PQGzRn
I understand. It's hard to carve out that time unless its after school.
I missed our chat again this week. I was hosting our district MS Book Brawl with 14 teams. It was awesome.
all the kids at our school have them. If the lose it, they lose priviledges.
Thanks girl! Iā¤ļø nights too!
