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

Follow Amanda Hunt on Instagram or TikTok @thenextgenlibrarian.

Episode Description:

In this episode Julie and Jan talk with Amanda Hunt (The NextGen Librarian) about her work on the AASL standards, strategies for middle school collection development, and practical ways to reignite student reading using tools like Beanstack and social media.

They discuss balancing professional reviews with knowledge of your student community, partnering with teachers, leveraging equitable ed-tech like Adobe Express, and Amanda’s plan for moving to the high school level to build a culture of reading.

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

Follow Billy Allen on Instagram, TikTok, and Youtube @3Kingvisions

For more information about Billy Allen's Hip Hop Storytime visit https://3kingvisions.com/

Episode Description:

In this episode we feature Billy Allen, founder of Three King Visions, who reinvents storytime by pairing hip‑hop and R&B with read‑alouds to spark a love of reading across ages and communities. We discuss his journey from public librarian to youth advocate, his community work in Las Vegas, and the impact of creative programming on families, teens, and lifelong learning.

Billy explains how libraries offer limitless learning and social services, why outreach and partnerships matter, and what’s next as he grows Three King Visions to bring hip‑hop storytimes, teen empowerment events, and professional development to more schools and libraries.

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

Follow Mike Rawls on Instagram @thebookwrangler 

Through Mike's Instagram bio, access Google Freebies or visit his Teacher Pay Teachers store.

Episode Description:

Mike Rawls, aka The Book Wrangler, discusses building a diverse, intentional elementary library collection, embracing all reading formats (from graphic novels to audiobooks), and using creative passive programming like character height charts and passport displays to spark curiosity.

He shares practical tips for creating designs while encouraging educators to welcome multiple pathways to literacy.

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

Follow Allie Cornejo on Instagram or TikTok @alliethelibrarian.

Episode Description:

Allie Cornejo, 2026 School Librarian of the Year, describes serving a border community in Harlingen, Texas, and supporting a health-professions high school through creative, hands-on library programs.

She discusses 3D-printing, stop-motion and graphic design projects, energized book talks, and leading district AI literacy. Plus the recap of this episode describes how you can be eligible for a Demco giveaway for your library!

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

Follow Kathy Schmidt on Instagram @Kathyfs24

Episode Description:

Hosts Julie Saunders and Jan Wilson talk with Kathy Schmidt, a veteran elementary school librarian, about building community partnerships that support student literacy and family engagement.

They spotlight Brock Elementary’s programs: United Way Reading Buddies, the Lit on the Lawn family reading event, and the Loop It Up Savannah garden program and share practical ideas for creating volunteer-driven reading support, outreach events, and hands-on learning opportunities.

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

To contact Lori McGovern by email:  mcgovern.lori@newton.k12.ga.us

Follow Lori McGovern on Instagram @Lori.McGovern.LMS

Episode Description:

In this episode, hosts Julie and Jan talk with Lori McGovern about why school libraries need intentional branding to communicate their instructional value. Lori shares practical steps: start with a logo, use consistent visuals in email signatures, newsletters and social media, and tweak captions and wording to highlight standards-aligned learning instead of just events.

Listeners will hear concrete ideas like templates, the “smother and cover” (Waffle House) approach to brand placement, and fun recognition strategies to promote collaboration and visibility. Contact details for Lori are provided for follow-up.

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

To connect with Robin Thompson through email: rthompson@bryan.k12.ga.us

Follow Robin Thompson @CrazyMrsT on Instagram and TikTok.

Episode Description:

Librarian Robin Thompson (Crazy Mrs. T) breaks down Melissa Stewart’s Five Kinds of Nonfiction: active, browsable, traditional, expository, and narrative. She explains how she reorganized her elementary nonfiction collection for better student findability, including chronological history and grouping military transportation with military books.

She also shares hands-on strategies that increased circulation: nonfiction book tastings, a March Madness-style bracket to engage readers, and outreach tips. 

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

To connect with Nick Moore through Instagram: @learnteachmoore

Episode Description:

Hosts Julie Saunders and Jan Wilson speak with elementary librarian Nick Moore about arts-integrated lessons, student-created projects, and growing a schoolwide reading culture.

Nick shares examples like using Tinkercad to build 3D cell models with Toy Story metaphors, body biographies enhanced with VR, and research using PebbleGo, Britannica, and Gale. The episode also covers community partnerships, strategies that boosted boys' engagement with reading, and practical tips to make students producers of content.

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

Listeners are invited to learn more or connect via LAPL.org.

Episode Description:

In this episode of Library Exchange, Amanda Miller, an adult librarian at the Los Angeles Public Library Central Branch, discusses her dual role as a reference librarian and outreach coordinator serving people experiencing homelessness, re-entry clients, and community partners around Skid Row.

Amanda explains weekly pop-up programs and partnerships (including Midnight Mission, Blue Hollywood Street Sanctuary, Skid Row Arts Alliance, and Urban Voices Project), services like courtesy library cards, free printing and Wi‑Fi, Career Online High School, music wellness sessions, and re-entry support, and how the library functions as a place of stabilization and dignity.

Listeners are invited to learn more or connect via LAPL.org.

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

For more information about the Library of Things: https://sites.google.com/view/lotmutualaid/home 

Episode Description:

Julie and Jan talk with Hazel Onsrud of Curtis Memorial Library in Brunswick, Maine, about the Library of Things: a community-focused, sustainability-driven collection of items, from dehydrators and worm-casting kits to power washers, supported by repair cafés, swap carts, and local partnerships.

Hazel shares practical tips on packaging, safety, maintenance, and using experience passes and the LOT Mutual Aid network so other libraries can tailor a sharing program to their community.

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

Episode Description:

Hosts Julie Saunders and Jan Wilson reflect on Season 1 of Library Exchange, highlighting real-world strategies school librarians used to demonstrate value, expand resources, and increase equity in collections and access.

This episode shares concrete ideas, from advocacy and branding to student helpers, partnerships, shelving innovations, and reading challenges while encouraging listeners to set professional library resolutions for the new year.

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

To follow Kannan Cangro on Instagram: @cangrolib 

Or contact her through email at Kcangro@gmail.com 

Episode Description:

In this episode, Kannan Cangro shares how she built a sustainable STEAM program in a busy elementary library—from leveraging a Boeing grant and simple materials like Kiva planks and math manipulatives to using micro:bits and robots. Hear practical, low‑cost instructional strategies, the engineering design process applied with no‑stakes formative assessment techniques, and tips for managing makerspace time and collaboration. Cannon also explains her inclusive true book fair model that gives every K–6 student two new books.

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

Check out the Postcrossing program here: https://www.postcrossing.com/ 

Episode Description:

Hosts Julie Saunders and Jan Wilson talk with Laura Silver, a New York City high school librarian, about bringing Postcrossing to students. Learn how the program uses postcards to teach geography, writing skills, language use, and empathy by connecting students with people around the world.

The episode covers how Postcrossing works, classroom and privacy tips, memorable exchanges, and simple steps to start a similar passive program in your library.

More resources for student-centered letter writing projects:

American Philatelic Society: Educator Resources

https://stamps.org/learn/educator-resources

* request a free box of cancelled stamps. We have used them for inquiry lessons and art projects. Students love to add the stamps to their phone cases.

Compassion Prison Project

https://compassionprisonproject.org/services/letter-writing-campaign/

FIUTS (Foundation for International Understanding Through Students) https://www.fiuts.org/be-a-pen-pal

GlamourGals https://glamourgals.org/my-dear-friend-main

Invites students to create greeting cards for seniors

Inclusive Schools Pen Pal Exchange

https://inclusiveschools.org/isw-activity/pen-pal-exchange/

Letters Against Isolation

https://loveforourelders.org/learning

Love for Our Elders

https://loveforourelders.org/learning

The National Postal Museum https://postalmuseum.si.edu/

Library of the National Postal Museum

https://library.si.edu/libraries/postal-museum/collections

Postcards: The Write Stuff

https://postalmuseum.si.edu/sites/default/files/education/pdfs/postcards-the_write_stuff.pdf

Operation Gratitude

https://www.operationgratitude.com/volunteer/anywhere/letters/

Student Letter Exchange

https://www.pen-pal.com/

Trucker Buddy (for younger students)

https://truckerbuddy.org

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

Click this link for more information and resources provided by Jessie Storrs: http://tinyurl.com/YDFlib 

Episode Description:

Teacher librarian Jessie Storrs runs the El Centro Junior Senior High School library inside the Sacramento Youth Detention Facility, serving residents and staff with books, DVDs, and 50+ board games. She uses strategy games like CuBirds to teach SEL skills—accountability, emotional resilience, and responsible decision‑making—and runs virtual field trips tied to popular series like I Survived.

Her central goal is to inspire residents and reduce recidivism by providing consistent caring, literacy access, and community through gaming and programming.

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

To follow Rebeca Fox:

TikTok: @thefoxreads

Click this link for more information and resources: beacons.ai/thefoxreads 

Episode Description:

Rebecca Fox, a veteran school librarian who recently moved to a high school position in Texas, shares practical strategies for building relationships with teachers and students, using input forms, creating popular book subscription boxes, hosting homecoming mum-making, and partnering on cultural programming like Día de los Muertos to make the library a welcoming, student-centered space.

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

You can find more information about Elissa Malespina and her AI information at ElissaMalespina.com. Elissa also has an AI School Librarians newsletter available on Substack.

Episode Description:

Teacher-librarian Elissa Malespina breaks down practical, ethical ways to use AI in K-12 schools. She shares real examples using ChatGPT for content creation, NotebookLM for research organization, Canva Bulk Create for presentations, Storm for topic overviews, and Screencastify for captions. She also explains how librarians can lead AI literacy, support differentiation, and reclaim time for student-facing work.

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

Connect with Amy @amybrownlee93 on Instagram and BlueSky or visit bibliobrownlee.weebly.com for more.

Episode Description:

In this episode of Library Exchange, hosts Jan and Julie interview Amy Brownlee, the pre-K-12 librarian in a small public school system in Kansas, about her successful grant work and teacher-study travel. Amy explains how she has secured nearly $97,000 through local and regional grants for books, STEM, technology, and professional learning.  She shares practical strategies for securing these grants through application strategies, tracking the funding, and demonstrating student impact.

She also describes several funded professional-learning trips including a Fulbright project in Ethiopia, an NEH institute on graphic novels with Comic‑Con, a transatlantic study trip to Germany, and the White House History Teacher Institute and how she brings artifacts, lessons, and cultural experiences back to enrich student learning in a small, rural district.

Listeners will leave with clear grant-writing tips, examples of funded projects, and resources to explore; connect with Amy at @amybrownlee93 on Instagram and BlueSky or visit bibliobrownlee.weebly.com for more.

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

To follow Hajnalka Molloy, search on LinkedIn and Facebook.

For more information and resources for advocating for school libraries, visit Students Need School Libraries website at https://studentsneedschoollibraries.org.au/ 

Episode Description:

Hajnalka Malloy, president of the School Library Association of South Australia and teacher librarian at Concordia College, discusses results from statewide school library censuses showing a decline in dual-qualified teacher-librarians. She shares practical advocacy strategies aligning library work to school goals, producing annual reports, showcasing student work, using parent brochures, and building relationships with leaders and staff.

She also speaks on the importance of sharing professional research, and joining advocacy groups to strengthen school libraries and emphasize their role in teaching information literacy and supporting student learning.

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

To follow Sharon Amolo:

Instagram and TikTok: @bybookchick

Episode Description:

In this episode, elementary school librarian Sharon Amolo (aka BookChick) shares how she designs pop‑up museums in the media center to bring curriculum to life for K - 5 students. She describes practical, low‑cost strategies - borrowing trunks from parks and museums, soliciting donations, scavenger hunts, make‑and‑take projects, and rotation stations - using examples like a toy timeline for kindergarten and a Westward Expansion museum for fourth grade.

Sharon explains scheduling, classroom partnerships, and the instructional value of hands‑on artifacts that boost engagement and advocacy, plus tips for stretching resources and tying experiences to standards so teachers buy in.

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

Learn more about the Very Airy Library with Stan Tucker: https://www.theveryairylibrary.com/ 

Episode Description:

Hosts Jan and Julie have a fascinating discussion with Stan Tucker, a former teacher turned children's author, who shares his inspirational journey of promoting literacy and character education across the U.S.

Dive into Stan's innovative programs like the Very Airy Library and Share Your Story, designed to spark creativity and respect in young readers and writers. Join us for an episode brimming with nostalgia, passion, and the power of storytelling.

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

Follow Mae Craddock on social media @IMCraddock or contact her at mae.craddock@gmail.com 

Episode Description:

In this episode, we delve into the transformative role of school librarians as key players in collaborative education. Our guest, Mae Craddock, shares insights from her 26 years as an educator at the innovative Community Lab School in Charlottesville, Virginia. Learn about the interdisciplinary approach that integrates librarians into the educational fabric, ensuring every student develops essential information and media literacy skills.

Mae discusses the unique setup of her school, where freedom in learning and collaboration are encouraged, resulting in fewer discipline issues and heightened student engagement. Discover how the lateral reading technique replaces outdated evaluation methods, making source reliability a cornerstone of the curriculum.

We also explore Mae's innovative approach to library management, where books are easily accessible throughout the school, emphasizing the librarian's role beyond just resource provision. Tune in for inspiring strategies to enhance your educational environment, whether you're an educator, librarian, or student advocate.

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

To follow Melissa Corey:

Blue Sky, Threads, and Instagram: @melissacorey

Tiktok: @melissacoreylibrary

Beacons: beacons.ai/melissacorey 

Episode Description:

Welcome to the latest episode of Library Exchange, sponsored by Capstone. In this engaging discussion, we speak with Melissa Corey, an esteemed middle school librarian from St. Joseph, Missouri. Recognized as a 2023 School Librarian of the Year finalist, Melissa shares her passion for integrating creativity and literacy in schools.

Dive into Melissa's innovative initiatives, from her renowned visual book lists that celebrate diverse literature to passive programming that captivates students' imaginations. Discover how her talents provide valuable tools for educators and inspire a love of learning in students. Melissa also shares strategies for connecting with teachers and enhancing staff wellness with engaging activities like bingo.

This episode is filled with insights for librarians and educators seeking to enrich their library programs and foster meaningful connections within their school communities.

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

For more information about the GCPS Book Mobile Program or how you can support this book mobile initiative, visit http://www.gcpsbookmobile.org/ 

Episode Description:

In this episode of Library Exchange, we delve into the exciting world of bookmobiles and their significant impact in one of Georgia's largest school districts. With Jan Wilson, co-host turned special guest, we explore how this unique program combats the traditional summer slide and fosters a love for reading among students.

The discussion highlights how the program, which started in 2017, has expanded to include two buses and a van, reaching thousands of students each year with a variety of books. Unique in its approach, the initiative emphasizes student choice and provides brand-new books to young readers, creating valuable personal libraries.

We also learn about the collaborative efforts behind the project, with community and district partnerships driving its success. Whether through a yearly 5K or partnerships with local charities, the program continually evolves to meet the needs of the community. Join us as we explore the powerful link between accessibility and literacy and inspire new ways to engage young minds through reading.

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

Link to the Flywheel Reading Momentum Model: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1NenvLEq4vUFNNI7PqeHszrp9GLPLnNkO/view?usp=sharing 

Episode Description:

In this engaging episode of Library Exchange, we explore innovative approaches to library programming with our guest, Dr. Sarah Sansbury. Known affectionately by her students as Mrs. Dr. Sansbury, she shares her inspiring journey from teacher to award-winning school librarian.

Discover how the Flywheel model, borrowed from the world of digital marketing, is revolutionizing school libraries by attracting, engaging, and delighting students and teachers alike. You'll hear about unique programs like the worm hotel, therapy dog visits, and birthday book vending machines that are captivating young minds at Dr. Sansbury's metro Atlanta school.

Learn how Sarah’s commitment to creating a welcoming environment in her library is turning casual visitors into enthusiastic, repeat patrons, fostering a lifelong love for reading. 

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 

Contact Jennifer Mathews at the Colorado School for the Deaf and Blind: jmathews@csdb.org 

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

Cicely’s Books: https://tinyurl.com/Cicely101 

Lerner Publishing Spring 2025 Specials: https://tinyurl.com/Lerner101 

Episode Description:

Join Julie Saunders and Jan Wilson as we explore the world of school librarianship, bringing you insightful conversations and inspiring ideas to elevate your library programs. In this episode of Library Exchange, sponsored by Lerner Publishing Group, we have an enlightening discussion with Cicely Lewis, the celebrated school librarian at Meadowcreek High School.

Explore the heart of a student-centered library program as Cicely shares her journey of creating an inclusive environment that puts students at the forefront. Discover innovative initiatives such as audiobook yoga, voter registration drives, and the vibrant Quinceanera fashion show that connects students to their cultures and communities.

Cicely also highlights her approach to welcoming new students and providing leadership opportunities through the Library Science program, making her library a hub of empowerment and growth.

Whether you're a seasoned librarian or just starting out, gain valuable insights from Cicely's strategies for meaningful student engagement and community connection.