Library Exchange Podcast Website

Access all episodes, submit a question, request to be a guest, or submit a story. https://www.libraryexchangepodcast.com

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Contact Jennifer Mathews at the Colorado School for the Deaf and Blind: [email protected] 

This Episode's Description:

This episode welcomes Jennifer Mathews, a finalist for the 2025 School Librarian of the Year from the School Library Journal, as she shares her transformative journey at the Colorado School for the Deaf and Blind. Dive into the challenges and rewards of adapting library services to meet the unique needs of students with diverse sensory abilities.

Visit the Library Exchange official website at https://www.libraryexchangepodcast.com 

Looking for some new swag for your library, yourself or a favorite book loving friend? Visit http://libraryexchange.etsy.com 

Episode Description:

Join us as we delve into the topic of Findability and its impact on school libraries. Three distinguished school librarians from the largest school district in Georgia share their experiences and insights on implementing a word-based classification system for nonfiction. High school librarian Lorraine McCullough, middle school librarian Carrie Card, and elementary librarian Nicole Solanki discuss their unique approaches in aligning library book categories, locations, and communications with student needs.

Discover the importance of vertical alignment, the challenges and successes of transitioning to this innovative model, and how it has enhanced students' ability to independently explore and engage with their library collections. Learn how Findability has shifted the perception of nonfiction sections from research-focused to curiosity-driven spaces, supporting diverse learning styles and multilingual student populations.

This episode is a must-listen for librarians and educators seeking to revolutionize their library spaces, encouraging student-centered learning and fostering a love for reading. Tune in to the Library Exchange podcast for a deep dive into the future of library systems.

Visit the Library Exchange official website at https://www.libraryexchangepodcast.com 

Looking for some new swag for your library, yourself or a favorite book loving friend? Visit http://libraryexchange.etsy.com 

Follow the Snarky Librarian (Amy Drake):

Instagram and TikTock: @the_snarky_librarian

This Episode's Description:

Welcome to this episode of Library Exchange, where we dive into the world of school libraries with our guest, Amy Drake, also known as the Snarky Librarian. Amy, a school librarian in Iowa, shares her journey from a high school English teacher to managing libraries across different educational levels.

Amy discusses the challenges and joys of overseeing both an elementary and a middle school library, highlighting the importance of building independence and fostering a love for reading among students. We also learn about her unique approach to integrating the Leader in Me framework to empower students and her innovative uses of library tools to promote student autonomy.

Library Exchange Podcast Website

Access all episodes, submit a question, request to be a guest, or submit a story. https://www.libraryexchangepodcast.com

Library Exchange Etsy Store

Find something fun for you, your favorite reader, or for your library. http://www.libraryexchange.etsy.com 

This Episode's Description:

The episode features a special interview with Christy James, Charleston County School District's Library and Media Services Coordinator. Discover her incredible journey from teacher to trailblazer, addressing librarian shortages with innovative solutions and fostering partnerships between public libraries and schools.

Supported by their sponsor, Nisewonger AV, advancing technology and designing spaces, Julie and Jan explore the transformative power of libraries and discuss initiatives that position them as a cornerstone of educational success.

Library Exchange Podcast Website: https://www.libraryexchangepodcast.com

Library Exchange Etsy Store: http://www.libraryexchange.etsy.com

School Librarians United Podcast Website: https://schoollibrariansunited.libsyn.com/ 

Follow Amy Hermon on Instagram: @schoollibrariansunited 

Episode Description:

In this episode of Library Exchange, Amy Herman, the voice behind the podcast "School Librarians United," discusses her journey from classroom teacher to librarian influencer and podcaster, touching on the importance of connection and community among librarians.

Amy highlights the impactful experiences gained from attending conferences, the need for constant advocacy of library roles, and the essential collaboration between librarians and teachers to enhance both library services and educational strategies. With humor and insight, the episode underscores librarians as invaluable human resources, capable of fostering professional growth and inspiring educational environments.

Listeners are also introduced to innovative ways librarians can create personalized professional development and connect with others to nurture an ever-evolving educational landscape. Julie and Jan offer a fresh perspective on the significance of librarianship and the power of building a vibrant professional learning network.

Podcast Website: https://www.libraryexchangepodcast.com

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Episode Description:

In this episode of Library Exchange, hosts Julie Saunders and Jan Wilson engage in a conversation with Jennifer Saunders, Director of Library Media Services for a large school district in Atlanta, Georgia. Together, they explore the impact of the Race to Read campaign—a city-wide initiative designed to cultivate a culture of reading.

Discover how programs like Beanstack and ClassPass make significant differences in literacy engagement, removing barriers and energizing students and adults alike.

With personal stories and creative strategies, this episode provides inspiration for library professionals and educators aiming to drive change in their communities.

Podcast Website: https://www.libraryexchangepodcast.com 

Visit our store at http://libraryexchange.etsy.com with reading swag for your favorite reading friend or school library. 

Podcast Description:

In this episode of Library Exchange, hosts Julie Saunders and Jan Wilson delve into the vital role of information and media literacy in today's education. Joined by guest Jenny Sweat, a high school librarian from Gwinnett County, Georgia, the episode explores the evolving responsibilities of librarians as educators.

Jenny shares her insights on how media literacy serves as an umbrella term for the essential skills needed to navigate the overwhelming amount of information available today. From identifying misinformation to critically analyzing sources, these skills are crucial for developing information literate students.

Listeners will learn about Jenny's strategic approach to integrating these skills into the curriculum at the Gwinnett School of Mathematics, Science, and Technology, describing her multi-year approach to build students' media literacy capabilities.

The conversation also highlights the importance of adapting teaching methods to maintain student interest and ensuring students are equipped to critically assess information across various platforms like Google News, Yahoo News, and TikTok.

Tune in to discover invaluable resources such as the News Literacy Project and AdFontis Media that provide free tools and lessons to facilitate media literacy education. This episode is a must-listen for educators and librarians committed to preparing students for an information-rich world.

Podcast Website: https://www.libraryexchangepodcast.com

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Episode Description:

This episode features Jenny LaJeunesse, the Technical Services Manager, and Alex Olson, the Staff Engagement Specialist, from the Gwinnett County Public Library System in Georgia.

Jenny and Alex introduce the concept of Findability, a word-based classification system designed to improve the accessibility of library materials by moving beyond the traditional Dewey Decimal System. Findability emphasizes user-friendly navigation and categorization, making the nonfiction section easier to browse. 

Jenny and Alex discuss the implementation process, which includes re-cataloging collections and designing new signage to create a more patron-centric environment. They also share insights into the collaborative efforts and challenges faced during the transition, highlighting the importance of adapting library systems to meet the evolving needs of both staff and patrons.

The episode wraps up with great tips for other librarians thinking about making similar changes. Jenny and Alex highlight how library spaces can be dynamic and interactive, adapting to the needs of both staff and patrons. Tune in for an enlightening chat on making libraries more accessible and engaging.

Podcast website: https://www.libraryexchangepodcast.com/

Etsy Store: http://www.libraryexchange.etsy.com

Episode Description:

Join hosts Julie Saunders and Jan Wilson as they explore the multifaceted world of school librarianship in this episode of Library Exchange. With special guest Amanda Jones, an award-winning librarian, author, and advocate, they discuss issues like soft censorship, the right to access information, and the role of libraries in fostering community and intellectual freedom.

Amanda shares her personal journey, including her impactful advocacy work against book banning, and her appearance at the Sundance Film Festival for the documentary "The Librarians." She highlights the importance of representation in library collections and the ongoing struggle against censorship, driven by her belief that books can indeed save lives.

Discover strategies for building strong relationships within school systems, advocating for necessary library policies, and ensuring that every student feels seen and heard. Plus, learn about Amanda's non-profit initiative, Librarians Building Libraries, which aims to create libraries where they're needed the most, empowering local communities.

This discussion reinforces the critical role that libraries and librarians play in shaping inclusive, informed, and supportive educational environments. Tune in and be inspired to advocate for the freedom to read.

Podcast Website: https://libraryexchangepodcast.com 

Etsy Store:  http://www.libraryexchange.etsy.com 

Episode Description:

Join us on this episode of Library Exchange as we dive into the world of school librarianship with hosts Jan Wilson and Julie Saunders. In a discussion with guest Julie Hatcher, a librarian from Boise, Idaho, we explore the benefits of reading competitions on students and communities.

Discover how Julie Hatcher has transformed student engagement through the Idaho Battle of the Books, fostering a community of young readers and empowering them with collaborative leadership skills. Learn about the intricacies of organizing these literary events, from book selection to competition day logistics, and gain insights into how reading competitions create lifelong memories and connections.

Whether you're a librarian seeking inspiration or simply curious about reading competitions, this episode offers a powerful exploration of how reading can be a bridge to community and personal growth. Tune in to learn more about the undeniable fun of connecting students through literature.