#10: Final Blog Post (Closing a Chapter)

#10:  Final Blog Post

    This semester closes yet another chapter in my studies towards my SLIS degree and it has been a wonderful learning experience over the past few months.  I have been introduced to the International Society for Technology in Education standards and compared (and contrasted) them with the American Association for School Library standards.  I have learned about devise agnostic tools, which are tools that can be used regardless of the devise one is using.  We have discussed cyberbullying and even shared our personal stories of struggling with bullying or advocating against it.  I have learned a lot about many important issues that will aid me in my success as a future school librarian but my biggest take away is that, where ever I am hired, I would like to make our library a place that is accessible and welcoming to all.  

    I have learned, even from our website creation assignment, that when making a library accessible to all it takes time, careful thought, and consideration.  What is amazing about accessibility to all is that adjustments that are made to help one specific patron who is differently abled may also help someone else who may not necessarily be differently abled.  In making these accommodations, you essentially get two for the price of one.  Successful accommodations make the space more beneficial for all patrons!  That is a win-win!  

    Being an educator and school librarian is not a job that should be done in isolation and when trying to find out more about accessibility, it takes a village.  It takes a team!  I will be sure to consult other educators (and stakeholders) who have experience or ideas about making the library more accessible and draw ideas from their comments or suggestions.  In short, I will do my best to make sure that all students are able to use our library space efficiently and effectively.  Whether it be a place to leave their cares behind while they travel to a different world via an audio book, learn to code in our makerspace, or find confidence in their ability to work with our school news production.... I hope to create an environment where everyone is welcome, acknowledge, and able to thrive.  Thank you for an amazing class this semester!