Saturday, February 2, 2019

Hours worked: 10AM-2PM

Running total: 57 hours
Today I observed another Family Weekend Wonders storytime. The theme was Monkey
Business and was both planned and facilitated by Emily (see attachment). I was impressed with
how well Emily handled the large crowd. A total of 32 people attended this storytime and Emily
did great at moving the storytime along. I learned that even when faced with a larger crowd, it is
important to just be you and engage the children as you normally would. Once again, I love how
interactive the storytimes are designed to be; for example, during a movement activity Emily
used a monkey plushie to mimic the movements that the kids were prompted to do, such as throw
a ball. The parachute has also come to be one of my favorite storytime activities, and I was able
to see it being used again. While playing the song “Bananas,’ by Jim Gill, the children got to
bounce monkeys around using the parachute and at one point all the caretakers held onto the
parachute while the children were underneath it. It was a great reminder that both children and
adults can learn by playing games!
Afterwards, I continued working on my scavenger hunt project. My main task for the day was to
cover the shoe box to be placed at the front circulation desk. This is where the children will
submit their answers to the scavenger hunt. Interestingly, covering a shoe box is much harder
than it looks, and this task emphasized the importance of thinking creatively! It took some time,
but I was able to cover the box in bright orange poster paper. The rest of my day was spent
working at the desk; I assisted a patron in finding books about Benjamin Banneker and learned
how patron notifications are set up at Lakewood Public Library. It was a fun day of activities!
Sunday, February 3, 2019
Hours worked: 3PM-5PM (2 hours)
Running total: 59 hours
It was a short day for me today but still very educational. I attended another adaptive story time
facilitated by Emily (see attachment). I cannot express how much I love these programs! As a
future librarian, I hope to offer adaptive programs because I want to be inclusive of the needs of
special populations and their families. By attending these adaptive storytimes and others, I am
learning how to incorporate components that can emphasize inclusivity and learning. For
example, in both adaptive storytimes that I have attended, families were taught an ASL sign
related to the theme. Today’s signs were “hug” and “kiss,” and everyone was prompted to use
these signs during certain moments in the storytime.
Besides learning techniques for how to facilitate an adaptive storytime, I am seeing how
important these programs are for caregivers. For example, one child had a visual impairment and
Emily was very accommodating and would take the book to the boy so that he could see the
pictures up closer. As she did this, his caretaker would smile and help point out pictures in the
book. I could tell that she appreciated the understanding and supportive atmosphere of the group.
During the playtime portion of storytime, caregivers can also socialize with one another and
offer support. To me, this supportive atmosphere emphasized the point that storytimes are meant
to be educational and fun for both caregivers and children, not just the children.

Tuesday, February 5, 2019

Hours worked: 4PM-9PM (5 hours)
Running total: 64 hours
I worked at the front desk for the first part of my day and assisted Marge in fulfilling a patron’s
request for picture books about bullying. Using Sirsi, I was able to find ten different books that
talked about bullying in some way. Despite some of the differences I have come across regarding
how Sirsi can be used, I feel very comfortable navigating the system. I am more knowledgeable
and adaptable because I have been able to use Sirsi in a different way than what I am used to.
I also continued to work on my project. My task was to finish decorating the shoe box;
specifically, to add symbols and text that would identify it as the scavenger hunt shoe box. Given
the theme of social justice, I decided to use various peace signs and images of the scales of
justice. Resizing the images and deciding how to spatially arrange them on the shoe box was a
fun challenge and reiterated the importance of creativity. I worked on my project in what is
known as the “planning room,” a storage space for program supplies and as the name implies, a
room where staff can go to work on tasks related to programs, etc. If space permits, I think these
planning areas or workrooms are important to have so that staff may better focus on special
tasks.
Today I also participated in my second Next Chapter Book Club meeting. Once again, I love
how supportive this group is of one another! Before we began reading, some of the members
volunteered to share good news such as joining a camp and signing up to be a cast member of a
show. I think this was a great way to start the program as it highlights some positive
accomplishments of group members. Julie also brought in coconut milk and fig newtons for
everyone to try. The group is now reading Swiss Family Robinson by Johan Wyss, and Julie
brought the snacks in as a way for everyone to connect to the book characters who were also
eating the same food. It was a good club meeting!
Thursday, February 7, 2019
Hours worked: 4PM-8PM (4 hours)
Running total: 68 hours
Today, I accompanied Julie to Asia Inc. at Emmerson Elementary. It was my second time
attending this program and we continued reading the book, Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key, by
Jack Gantos. Julie mentioned that they would probably be reading this book for the rest of the
year. I admire Julie for being able to choose books that can keep mostly everyone interested as I
know this is a challenge for many librarians. I also love that this book depicts what life for a
child with behavioral disorders may be like because I think it is important to encourage kids to
consider other’s perspectives and develop empathy for one another.
I also completed my scavenger hunt project! I hid a total of ten signs throughout the children and
youth services department and created an answer sheet that staff could use to give hints to those
needing some assistance. While finding good places to hide the signs was a bit of a challenge, I
had fun completing the task. I left everything prepped and ready to be used the next day,
including clipboards with copies of the scavenger hunt sheets (see attachment). I can’t wait to
see how many people participate in this program!
(Insert link to attachment email about scavenger hunt)
Friday, February 8, 2019
Hours worked: 2PM-6PM (4 hours)
Running total: 72 hours
On this Friday, I attended the 2PM Weekend Wonders Storytime conducted by Jeff. This
Weekend Wonder’s theme was, “I Love That Book,” which encompassed a variety of popular
books and characters such as Pete the Cat. I absolutely loved this idea! Staff chose their favorite
books to read and I think this was a great way for staff to share their love of reading and books
with everyone. While I have attended other Weekend Wonder Storytimes, this one was a little
different because not many people attended storytime during this time slot. Only one family was
in attendance (one caretaker and two children) but regardless, the storytime was still conducted
following the same format as previous Weekend Wonders. Although it was a smaller group than
those I have seen in the past, it was still a wonderful time! The children and caretaker had smiles
on their faces the whole time and were attentive to the books read by Jeff.
Two of the books that were read were Nobody Likes a Goblin by Ben Hatke, and Wolfie the
Bunny by Ame Dyckman. I had not read either of these books before and thought that both were
excellent choices. The last book to be read was Pete the Cat and His Four Groovy Buttons by
Eric Litwin. Instead of reading the story in the traditional sense, this story was told using the
song version. As the song played, Jeff would turn the pages of the book for everyone to follow
along with. I thought this was a great way of incorporating other forms of media into a traditional
storytime. In the future, I think I would also like to incorporate stories that can be told through
song because it can make reading more fun for children and may help struggling readers.
Afterwards, children had the opportunity to create their own books using images of characters
from books and TV shows. Children colored their pictures and glued them onto a premade mini
book of construction paper. Jeff and I sat with the family as they created their books. I enjoyed
getting to know another patron and her family! Even though they were the only ones at
storytime, the children had fun and enjoyed coloring and putting together their book. As a future
librarian, I want to place emphasis on the impact of programs and not necessarily the numbers
because I believe that in the end, it is the impact these programs make on the lives of families
that truly matters.
Later, I shelved a cart of new books which included manga and graphic novels. As I was
shelving, a patron asked for help in looking for books about animals and biographies. I showed
the patron both the section on books about animals and the biography sections. She was looking
for books for a family member who had to do a school project and was unsure what books would
be appropriate for a third grader. It was not exactly reader’s advisory as I had not personally read
the books I pulled, but the patron seemed pleased with my efforts to assist her in finding books
and left with a smile. While it was a bit tricky finding books on such a general subject (the patron
did not request a specific animal or person), I enjoyed the challenge of finding books to the
patron’s liking and I could tell that they were grateful for my assistance. This experience
reminded me of the importance of displaying good customer skills and empathy for others
because I could tell that the patron felt a bit overwhelmed by the large collection of books to
choose from. Although it took some time, the patron appreciated me listening to her and finding
more books if the ones I had first chosen for her were not to her liking. I learned that sometimes
it is not about finding the perfect book; it is about showing our patrons that we care about their
needs and interests.
Lastly, I attended my second meeting of Otaku Café. Nicka spoke to the attendees about the
history of the Sanrio Corporation and the impact of Hello Kitty. Afterwards, everyone had the
chance to make their own Hello Kitty ears and watch a few episodes of the anime, Sanrio Boys. I
was impressed with how involved the attendees of this program were. Many were comfortable in
sharing their opinions and giving input. There were mostly girls and while the boys in attendance
opted out of doing the craft, they were still sociable. It was great to see tweens and teens sharing
their interests and talking to Nicka about their lives. I remember being a teen who liked anime
and feeling out of place because I did not know many others who did. I think programs like these
are important for teens because it gives them the opportunity to share their interests with others
their age and make connections. Nicka was a wonderful facilitator and it was inspiring to see the
impact a mentor can have on the lives of youth.
Tuesday, February 12, 2019
Hours worked: 9AM-1:30PM (4.5 hours)
Running total: 76.5 hours
Today was an eventful day! I accompanied Kate MacGregor to two outreach locations. Our first
visit was to a preschool at Emmerson Elementary. Kate explained that Lakewood has an early
childhood program (LECP) that identifies children who may need some extra assistance before
kindergarten and that we would be visiting one of their preschools. It was my first-time
observing a storytime by Kate and it was a lot of fun! The kids had a terrific time and were
excited from the moment we first stepped into the classroom. Kate read three different books
featuring nocturnal animals and would sing songs with the children in between the books to give
them an opportunity to move around. I was really impressed with how well Kate handled the
room of preschoolers; for example, she held their interest by asking questions and making the
stories more interactive. When handing out shakers, Kate also made sure that the children knew
her rules about using them and overall, I learned different techniques for keeping a room under
control.
Our second outreach visit was to a special needs class for six, seventh, and eighth graders at
Garfield Elementary. Kate had been working with these students on a special project; together
they were going to create one or two blankets to be used in a fundraiser event. Kate is an expert
seamstress and had previously helped the students design their own 4 by 4 quilt blocks, which
she had sewn together. Today, she helped the students add sashing to their 4 by 4 squares and
while she did this, I read the book, Soccer on Sunday (#52 of the Magic Tree House Merlin
Mission series) by Mary Pope Osborne, with the class. Per the head teacher’s request, I read to
the students for a while and then asked for volunteers. Some students were comfortable in
reading on their own while others needed help with pronunciation and word recognition. For
example, for some students I would read the word to them and they would repeat it back.
Regardless of reading levels, everyone tried their best and were an inspiration to me. I had a
wonderful time interacting with these students and love the idea of a group project accomplished
through sewing. I think this is a population that may be pushed to the side but deserve to be in
the light and recognized for their accomplishments.
Wednesday, February 13, 2019
Hours worked: 9:30AM-1:30PM (4 hours)
Running total: 80.5 hours
I spent the first part of my morning observing a Toddler Treats storytime facilitated by Kate.
While I have observed Toddler Treats in the past, this was my first-time observing Kate facilitate
the program. I love getting to see different storytimes because I can see a variety of styles and
ways to interact with the families. For example, one component of this storytime that stood out to
me was the yoga card. The card has a poem that comes with an associated movement; in this
case, the yoga pose was the letter “Y”, and children were prompted to stand and spread their
arms out like the letter. I thought it was a great way to both encourage letter recognition and help
get their wiggles out. I also enjoyed how Kate involved the caretakers at various points; for
example, after reading a book about hugs, Kate prompted the children to give hugs to their
caretakers. Some children even went to hug Kate, which to me, emphasizes the point that library
programs really do help foster relationships with our communities.
Afterwards, I observed Kate facilitate the Shake, Rattle, and Roll storytime. It was my first time
observing this storytime and it was interesting to compare it to Toddler Treats. Although similar,
there were distinct differences such as the use of shakers at both the beginning and end of the
storytime. This storytime can also have children older than three attending as it is geared towards
two to six-year olds. I thought that the use of songs and dance was fun! For example, at one point
the children were all given colorful scarves to dance with during a song. It is also amusing to see
just how popular the shakers are. Both children and caretakers seem to enjoy using these!
Later, I also helped Kate arrange the quilt squares created by the students in the special needs
class. Kate wanted my opinion on the arrangement before she began to sew the blocks together
to make the quilt. Although I do not know how to sew, I am interested in learning and found the
process of quilt making to be amazing.
Tuesday, February 19, 2019
Hours worked: 4PM-7PM (3 hours)
Running total: 83.5 hours
On this day, I worked on shelving some books. I also helped a family find books written in
Arabic. Before this, I had not known that there was a small selection of books in Arabic available
in the nonfiction section. Although the collection was limited, the family was still grateful for my
assistance. At Lakewood Public Library, this was my first interaction with a patron asking for
materials in a different language. As someone who grew up in a household where English was
not the dominant language spoken, I believe it is important for libraries to offer materials in
different languages to increase access and be considerate of the needs of other populations. I also
believe in the importance of responding with courtesy and respect for requests for materials in
different languages. The original request I received came from a child who shyly asked about it,
but I could tell that the adult caretaker was the one interested in the material. It can be difficult
for some to request a need for materials in what is considered a foreign language, which is why
being empathetic, and understanding is important.
Today, I also attended my third Next Chapter Book Club meeting. The club was still reading the
book, Swiss Family Robinson by Johan Wyss, but they were much further along than the last
time I had participated. I know I have said it before, but I really do love this program! Every
time, I learn more ways to make books an interactive experience for all. For example, Julie will
usually have small snacks and water bottles for everyone and today, the water bottles were used
as a prop to mimic a toast that characters performed in the book. It was a simple act but one that
added a fun element to the story and had everyone smiling. By the end of night, we had finished
Swiss Family Robinson and started the book, Cam Jansen: The Mystery of the Stolen Corn
Popper, by David A. Adler. I enjoyed hearing everyone’s opinions on the book and am looking
forward to reading the next book.
Sunday, February 24, 2019
Hours worked: 5PM-8PM (3 hours)
Running total: 86.5 hours
Today was a shorter day but still very eventful. I worked at the front desk for a bit and learned
how to register patrons for programs. At the Cleveland Public Library branch that I work for, we
do not register patrons for programs ahead of time, therefore it was nice to see how registrations
works at Lakewood Public Library. An interesting thing I learned was how to enter new patrons
that are registering versus those that have already registered for programs in the past. I think it is
great that there are many returning patrons interested in either the same program or similar ones,
and that families can continue coming to the library for years because even if a child ages out of
one program, they have the option of joining the next program that is step up (intended for older
children).

While working at the desk, a youth inquired if the library had books related to businesses and
was especially interested in any that discussed how to start your own business. Using Sirsi, I was
able to find her a few books, but unfortunately there were not many YA books on this topic.
Despite not finding what she requested, I did walk her to the adult section to see if perhaps we
could find additional books. The patron was very appreciative of my efforts to assist her and it
reinforced my value of providing good customer service. Although librarians may not always be
able to find the exact item patrons request, I think it is important to offer as many options to
patrons as we can.

Lastly, I attended the program known as the Lakewood LEGO league facilitated by Kate. During
this program, children can come and play with the library’s collection of LEGO toys, including
bricks and figurines. I was really impressed with how creative the kids were! Many built intricate
scenarios using multiple pieces and even though the containers of LEGO’s were spread out,
some of the children would build their worlds together. I love the idea of a program that
encourages free play because it shows that children can learn through playing. As the children
built their worlds, I helped Kate organize the containers to make the pieces easier to find. The
children enjoyed being able to find popular pieces more easily, such as wheels. I had a fun night!
Tuesday, February 26, 2019

Hours worked: 9:30AM-1:30PM (4 hours)

Running total: 90.5 hours
On this day, I observed a Toddler Treats storytime facilitated by Marge. A total of 28 people
attended this storytime and once again, I was impressed with how the staff handles larger
storytime crowds! Marge was a great facilitator and kept the storytime moving nicely. It is
difficult to pick a favorite component because this storytime really is well planned out; however,
as previously mentioned, I do enjoy the incorporation of a yoga movement. The yoga movement
this time was the zero pose; everyone raised their arms above their heads to make a zero. I like
simple but effective things like this because caretakers can do it at home with their children.
Sometimes people believe that they must have the latest technology or complex methods to teach
their children, but I believe it is important to remind caretakers that simple actions or games such
as these can also be effective.
After storytime, Marge walked me through her preparation of her next program for the day, Get
Ready for Kindergarten. I was excited to observe this program because I had not had the chance
to sit it on one yet. I love the idea of a having a program that specifically focuses on the skills
needed for kindergarten because while early literacy skills can be taught during storytimes, this
program focuses on what local kindergarten school teachers are looking for. For example, Marge
had them practice introducing themselves by playing a game; in this game, everyone had a bean
bag and had to say their name, the color of their bean bag, and a number. Marge also had the
children line up and walk over to a table where they completed worksheets together (see
attachments). I found all of these to be great ideas and I especially liked the idea of completing a
worksheet together because it encouraged the kids to interact with one another.
Lastly, I observed Marge facilitate a Baby N Me storytime. The caretaker involvement in this
storytime is wonderful to see and overall, I am learning many ways to make storytime a fun and
engaging time for all. It really is interesting for me to see the differences between types of books,
songs, and activities chosen depending on the age group. I believe that I am getting a
comprehensive understanding of how to plan storytimes for all ages.
Thursday, February 28, 2019
Hours worked: 9:30AM-3:30PM (6 hours)
Running total: 96.5 hours
Today was a busy day! For the first part of the morning, I worked at the desk with Kate. While
working at the desk, I was able to practice registering patrons for programs. I also learned how to
submit a materials request form. A patron had requested the book, Starstruck: The Cosmic
Journey of Neil deGrasse Tyson, by Kathleen Kull and Paul Brewer; however, it was not
available in the system. Kate explained how they can submit a form requesting that the item be
purchased and that sometimes staff can purchase it on Ingram themselves. A Google Doc is used
to keep tract of requests and orders made by staff. It was exciting getting to request my first item
for a patron!
Afterwards, I observed Julie facilitate a Shake, Rattle, and Roll Storytime. I enjoy how shakers
are used in this storytime to create a fun and positive environment. As the patrons were entering
the Activity Room, Julie had a basket of shakers and each child was encouraged to take one as
they walked by. It was great to see the immediate effect this had on both the caretakers and
children. Everyone walked in with a smile and were excited to be there. As previously
mentioned, Julie is good at controlling a room; for example, one child was a bit more energetic
than others and Julie asked the caretaker for some help. I learned that as a facilitator, even
though you are in charge, that does not mean you can necessarily control every child’s behavior
and it is reasonable to ask for a caretaker’s help when needed.
Lastly, I had the wonderful opportunity to accompany Julie to her NEO Adapted Librarians
Meeting at Euclid Public Library (see attachment). It was a meeting for librarians from different
systems who either offer adaptive programming for patrons or are interested in offering these
services. During the first part of the meeting, the facilitator from the organization, Connecting
for Kids talked about how to support fine motor skills; for example, she discussed how using
one’s hands to manipulate the position of pennies is a great activity to encourage the
development of children’s fine motor skills. It was great to get these tips from an experienced
professional! I also loved hearing all the librarians giving feedback or suggestions to one
another. Some shared what programs or strategies had worked for their library, while others
shared difficulties that they wanted input on. I love how supportive everyone in this profession
can be of one another and this meeting reflected librarians’ commitment to serve those in their
communities equally.
After the meeting, Julie and I toured the Euclid Public Library. I had never been to this library
before and it was amazing to see how their space is designed. For example, there were separate
spaces for teens and children and there was even a fireplace in the adult sitting area! I was able to
see how technology is incorporated in another library; for example, in the children’s area there
was a table with a few iPads and on those iPads, kids could use the program ABC Mouse.
Additionally, the entrance to the children’s room was a specially designed archway and I noticed
that a tablet was incorporated into this archway. Getting the chance to visit another library was
fun and overall, the whole experience of attending the NEO Adapted Librarians Meeting was
both amazing and educational.