Two funny things happened in the library that I feel like sharing. (Readers know I love to toot my own horn.)
Story #1: As I was doing background research for a Dewey Decimal System lesson I was planning for a 4th grade class, I was struck by what I came to call a conspiracy of the computers. The school ones were not operational because the powers that be were changing the system, and mine at home developed an uncooperative printer. To make a long story short, I was still printing out the handouts for the class 20 minutes before class time, and begged the nice man who works in the copy room to provide enough for everyone asap. As I was speaking to the class, I was simultaneously making out the activity cards (a Dewey number that the kids were supposed to match up with a book). The students actually found books for many of them. For the rest, I told the searchers that if there was none for their number, it might be checked out, and they should write down a nearby title. I was uncertain how well the lesson went over until this past Monday (six days later), when students in the same class came in with the assignment to read nonfiction animal books. Some kids actually asked me for the Dewey numbers, and when I told them, either found the books on the shelves or told me the book wasn’t there! (The latter turned out to be a misshelved book, which I found.) When I shared this story with the teacher, she was impressed. I’ve been patting myself on the back all week.
Story #2: Several weeks ago, I promised a 2nd grade class that we would do a reader’s theater at their next visit. In the meantime, the teacher and I thought that since the next session was scheduled for March 2, I might do something on a Dr. Seuss theme. When the class arrived, as the kids were returning their books, they excitedly talked about the reader’s theater. A promise is a promise, I thought, and dug out the scripts. As we were about to begin, the teacher commented that 2nd graders are probably too old for Dr. Seuss books. I mentioned that there are a number of titles that are definitely of interest to children this age, and handed her The Lorax. After the “production,” which the kids enjoyed so much that they wanted to do it again next time, the teacher said there was time to at least begin reading a book. I picked up The Lorax, which is what I had chosen (although Yertle the Turtle came a close second.) Unfortunately, this was the end of the school day, and dismissal time arrived. The kids were so disappointed, and begged me to continue next time. (They might give their teacher no peace.) And I think the teacher learned something today as well.
Mar 06, 2012 @ 10:51:18
Wonderful stories that make me a bit sad, since any significant and meaningful teaching has gone by the wayside in my library. I’ve been told it’s not my job (which it isn’t, although I sneak a few in).
Mar 06, 2012 @ 14:47:04
I understand your sadness, as I’ve had to push for what teaching I can manage to squeeze in. Administration has not been supportive until a new principal joined the elementary staff, and the high school library (we are a K-12 school) sits empty of students. That is worse than sad. When I say something, the principal “agrees,” but does nothing about the situation.