Library
Management

Lesson
Plans

Reading
Motivation

Library
Skills

Research

Reading & Literacy

Archives

Engaging Ways to Teach Destiny Catalog Skills (And Make Them Stick!)

We have all been there. You gather a class of third or fourth graders on the library rug, pull up Destiny on the projector, and start walking through how to search for books. Within five minutes, half the room is staring at the ceiling, two kids are tying their shoes together, and someone is asking if they can go to the bathroom. Then, five minutes later during checkout, a student comes up and asks, “Where are the dog books?. You remind them that was the search you just showed them! Teaching students how to use the library catalog is an important part of helping them become independent library users. But simply showing students where to click usually isn’t enough. They need opportunities to search, make mistakes, read catalog records, locate call numbers, and actually find books on the shelves. If you use Destiny in your elementary library, these strategies
READ THE POST

Caldecott Medal Predictions 2026

As librarians and educators look ahead to the next awards season, I’ve gathered my personal predictions for the books that could rise to the top when the Caldecott Medal is announced on Monday, January 26, 2026. This watchlist reflects early buzz, standout illustration work, and the type of visual storytelling that often capture the committee’s attention. Think of it as a starting point for exploring the picture books generating excitement in the year ahead. Cranky, Crabby Crow (Saves the World) by Corey R. Tabor Crow is known for being cranky, brushing off every friendly greeting with a sharp “KAW.” But his grumpiness hides a surprising secret: Crow is actually on call for an important mission. When a red phone rings, he slips underground and into a hidden spaceship. His task? Save Earth from an incoming asteroid. Tabor’s expressive artwork and comedic timing give this humorous hero story both charm
READ THE POST

Librarian Interview Tips to Help You Ace Your Next Interview

Librarian Interview Tips to Help you Ace your Next Interview.
If you’re gearing up for a school librarian interview, first of all, congrats! Whether you’re stepping into the library world for the first time or looking to move to a new school, preparing for the interview is a big step toward landing a role you’ll love. I remember how nerve-wracking it felt trying to figure out how to showcase everything a school librarian does, especially in an elementary setting where your day might include teaching research skills, finding the perfect read-aloud, running a book fair, and supporting classroom teachers with resources. That’s why I’m sharing some of my favorite interview tips to help you feel confident and ready when it’s your turn to shine. How I Prepared for a School Librarian Interview When I was getting ready to interview for a school librarian position, I knew I needed to go beyond just showing my love for books. I had
READ THE POST

Improve Library Efficiency with Student Library Helpers

Improve Library Efficiency with Student Library Helpers.
As school librarians, we juggle so much – circulation, shelving, displays, and helping our students find the perfect book to spark their curiosity. It’s a lot to handle and, some days, it can feel like you need an extra set of hands (or five). That’s where library helpers come in! They’re the secret to keeping your library running smoothly while giving students a sense of ownership and responsibility. Whether it’s shelving books or organizing supplies, library helpers can transform your space into a more efficient and welcoming environment. Today, I’m sharing some tips and guidance for how to get library helpers started in your library! Why Library Helpers Are a Game-Changer Having library helpers has completely changed how I manage my library. They don’t just take a load off my plate. They also make the library feel like a shared space where everyone contributes. These student volunteers bring so
READ THE POST

Teaching Types of Genres to Elementary Students

These picture books and chapter books are perfect for teaching types of genres to elementary students.
If you’ve ever watched your kiddos light up when they connect with a story, you know how powerful books can be. When I introduce different types of genres in the school library, it’s a chance to open the door to new worlds, big ideas, and unforgettable adventures. Picture and chapter books are great for lessons because they’re perfect for breaking down genre elements while keeping children engaged. Whether you’re working with primary students or upper elementary readers, there’s something magical about finding just the right book to bring a genre to life. Today, I’m sharing some favorites that I use when teaching the different types of genres to my students. Breaking Down the Types of Genres Before diving into book recommendations, let’s take a moment to break down what makes up each genre. Understanding the key features of each genre helps our students recognize patterns and appreciate the storytelling
READ THE POST

Caldecott Medal Predictions 2025

The Caldecott Medal winner will be revealed on January 27th, 2025. Each year, I compile my own list of potential contenders. While I haven’t read as many books as the committee, I’ve selected 15 titles I believe are strong candidates. These books are listed in alphabetical order, and at the end of this post, I’ll share my top three picks for the Caldecott Medal. Don’t forget to explore my other Caldecott blog posts for more insights! Being Home by Traci Sorrell This book portrays the journey of a young Cherokee girl and her mother as they return to their homeland. As she prepares for the road trip, she draws the different landscapes she sees out her window. She is excited for the journey to end so she can be with her family and start life in a different home. The illustrations enhance the narrative with vivid depictions of landscapes
READ THE POST

Staying Cool in the Library is my blog, where I share my passion for fostering a love of reading with children. As a librarian, I believe reading should be fun and accessible to all students. That’s why I share engaging and interactive lesson plans, creative ways to build exciting library collections, and resources to inspire even the most reluctant readers in any classroom or library. Check out my blog posts and products in my store, and join my email list below.

[convertkit form=966981]

Categories

Categories