Harte Loves Books

Due to its public nature, a Learning Commons Website can have many audiences. I have gone back to my research, searches, and exploring to become clear in what I am hoping to build. One element that I have missed, is that of having a Mission Statement. When browning Best Library Sites of 2019  although featuring public libraries, the designs with clear mission statements appealed to me. I created one for one of my previous courses, so going back, refining, and revising my LC Mission Statement, I think is a great addition and start.    (image source: https://meetpiola.com/) In my consultations and meetings with the Communications and Tech departments at my school, the question of ‘who is this for’ has been asked several times.  In my planning, the primary audience and design will be for K-6 students across two different schools. However, as a hub of information, it will be a helpful tool for teachers and parents as well. This multi-faceted audience can pose a challenge...

(image source: pixabay.com) This idea of creating a virtual learning commons or a website has been on my mind and in my plans for some time. It is now starting to look like a reality, and I am equal parts excited and nervous/overwhelmed.  I spent the first few weeks of the course researching what different schools have for websites, what I liked, and what the guidelines and research suggested. That was fun and interesting research, but, it was also very detached, in a 'someday' dreamy sort of way. With the timeline for the project approaching, I knew I needed to do a bit more. So I spoke to my principal, and she suggested I speak to the tech team and the communications team. She said that we could check in with feasibility and go from there.  With the meeting on the horizon, I gathered my notes and got ready to make a pitch. I wanted a Learning Commons website. It would benefit the school and begin to create an online community. I want something that is current, relevant, and ...

(Image source: pixabay.com)  The theme that seemed to weave its way through my learning and reflection over the past few weeks is that of connection.  The message that I continue to run into is that a teacher librarian’s job is to be a connector. Connecting teachers with resources and students with books, definitely. But also, connecting learning experiences between different grades and also ideas with opportunities. This has led to my continued understanding of the importance of relationships. In order to make the most effective and meaningful connections, knowing the students and teachers makes a difference. This means listening, paying attention to details, and being organized.  Fostering relationships has to be a priority in order for any of this to happen.  (Image source: pixabay.com)  Where I am wanting to further develop this is finding the best ways to collaborate and co-teach in a time of Covid restrictions. In my school, where there has not been a teac...

  This week’s topic is one that I was looking forward to exploring further. Learning about library programs around the world will make for great blog reading!  (image source: pixabay.com)  Belize is the country I will be researching further, as it holds a special place in my growth as a teacher and learner. I completed my B.Ed at the University of Lethbridge. I completed several courses in International education, and I had big dreams of where the world of teaching might take me!  I was fortunate to have the opportunity to complete a full semester of teaching internationally as part of my program.  The University had a partnership with the University of Belize, and I was accepted to be one of six students who traveled and taught in Belize. My placement was at a primary school in Belmopan. Under the mentorship of my professor Pamela Winsor, and her work with Belize’s Language to Literacy Program I was excited about being able to teach and share my love of litera...