Librarians and Reading

[Cyndi Gates <cgates@PCJHS.ESU3.K12.NE.US>]

Just had to add my $.02 worth to this discussion -- I consider my job to
have two important facets.  One is the teaching of research skills (another
way of saying "problem solving") in order to produce a life long love of
learning and an ability to find the information needed.  I do all kinds of
things to promote this.  We've taken our first baby steps in Big6.  Kids
are learning to find materials, take notes, cite sources and all that good
stuff.  The other important facet of my position is helping kids see
reading for enjoyment as a positive thing.  (I'm in a junior high.)  The
best way I have found is teaching through modeling.  I pop into reading and
L.A. classes with new books periodically.  I occasionally get to read aloud
to a class.  I try to have the book I'm currently reading visible -- and I
have been known to monitor the library for a period by walking around
reading.  If I didn't enjoy reading, I would have an tough time selling it
to the kids -- believe me, they can smell a fake a mile off!

My love for reading and my desire to pass that love along to others played
a significant role in my decision to become a media specialist -- but it
wasn't the only deciding factor.  I just think that if I didn't truly love
being surrounded by books and related resources, I would lose some of my
effectiveness and credibility!

JMHO --


Cyndi Gates
Platteview Central Junior High
South Sarpy #46
Springfield, NE (5 miles south of Omaha)

e-mail:  cgates@pcjhs.esu3.k12.ne.us

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