

SLS Newsletter

Week of March 31, 2025
Announcements
In Case You Missed It:
- Apply for the Sara Jaffarian School Library Program Award. Applications for this $5,000 award are accepted until May 1st.
What's Happening in Your Library?
Fort Ann CSD - Johanna DeKalb
Genrefying in Progress! by Johanna DeKalb
This is a work in progress......and is gradually taking shape. Over the past few weeks, I have been weeding the high school fiction, and have organized four sections so far and created signage. Classic Literature, Sports Fiction, Fantasy, and Science Fiction/Dystopian are all in genre-specific areas. (Bookshelves are also being cleaned and dusted as books are moving around the Library!!)
SLS Resources Tips & Tricks
TLC webinars coming soon!
These webinars are provided by TLC. Info and Zoom registration links below.
April 15, 2025 | 1:00 PM ET
Topic: Mastering Slip Customization
Description: A customized slip can significantly enhance the patron experience by making important details easy to find. Join the Training team for this webinar to learn the various ways you can tailor your slips, from adding personalized messages to organizing information for maximum clarity.
**LS2 Preferences access is needed.
Registration: Register here
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April 22, 2025 | 1:00 PM ET
Topic: Inventorying your Library
Description: It’s time for spring cleaning! If you haven’t run an inventory for a while, join us for this webinar to learn how the inventory process works. This session will guide you through the necessary steps to get your library’s inventory up to date.
**LS2 Cataloging is needed.
Registration: Register here
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April 29, 2025 | 1:00 PM ET
Topic: End-of-Year Tasks for Schools
Description: Are you a school librarian or school library administrator? While the end of the school year is still a few months away, it’s quickly approaching. Join the Training team for this webinar, which will cover a few reminders of important tasks to start thinking about as you prepare for the final stretch. This webinar will cover the end-of-year tasks in detail and discuss how TLC School Support can help you get ready for a smooth end-of-year wrap-up!
Registration: Register hereAll Webinars are recorded and available immediately on LS•Community | Training Webinars | Recordings.
In case you missed it...here are the last two "WSWHE Wisdom"
Professional Learning Opportunities
Unpacking the NYS Media Literacy Toolkit for Educators
In January 2025, the New York State Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Services shared the Media Literacy Toolkit for Educators with several stakeholder groups across the state. Join us as we unpack this toolkit and find practical ways in which this information can be incorporated into what you are already doing. In addition, you may be surprised to learn that there is already a professional in your school who is doing this work. Participants will leave with a working understanding of the toolkit and its practical uses in schools.
All educators and administrators are welcome!
Date: April 10, 2025
Time: 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Register: https://www.mylearningplan.com/WebReg/ActivityProfile.asp?D=18589&I=5040013
Beyond the Bookshelf
Dive deep into platforms like OverDrive, TeachingBooks, and other valuable tools, learning how to curate digital collections, integrate e-resources into curriculum, and maximize student engagement. This workshop will provide hands-on experience, practical tips, and strategies for seamlessly incorporating digital resources into your library program.
April 24, 2025
8:30 am - 3:00 pm
Register by April 10th: https://www.mylearningplan.com/WebReg/ActivityProfile.asp?D=18589&I=5030074
Communication Coordinator Meeting - May Meeting
Date: May 15, 2025
Time: 8:00 am - 3:00 pm
Location: Ballard Road Conference Center
Register: https://www.mylearningplan.com/WebReg/ActivityProfile.asp?D=18589&I=4959120
The Annual Children's Literature Connection Caldecott & Newbery Tea
What: The annual Children's Literature Connection Caldecott & Newbery Tea
When? Sunday, May 18, 2025 from 1:30 to 4:30
Where? Colonie (William K. Sanford) Town Library, 629 Albany-Shaker Road, Loudonville
How can I register? Just email Ann-Marie at HelldorferAM@colonielibrary.org and tell her that you're coming.
Details? Each year, CLC members and friends share their reviews of Newbery and Caldecott winning and honor titles. This year, we are thrilled to welcome Newbery honor author Lesa Cline-Ransome and Caldecott honor author Stephanie Seales as two of our reviewers.The CLC Caldecott & Newbery Tea is just two months away – May 18th.
Other reviewers are Sarah LuAnn Perkins, Jessica Periwinkle, Kerry McQuaide, Kyra Teis, Rebecca Ekstrom, Anne Rapppoccio, Melissa Hurt and Cathy Darlington.
Will there be refreshments? Of course! Light refreshments will be served.
Which books were award winners? Check HERE.
Need more info? Contact Janice at jwtoomajian@gmail.com.
Vendor Information
As budgets begin to be developed for next year, now is the time to take a look at your current database stats (let us know if you need help) and see if any changes might be necessary.
As we have done in years past, we have asked our vendors to provide trials for our librarians so that you can begin to see if you want to make any changes to your databases for 25-26. You will want to start thinking about any new products you might want to purchase next year.
We have secured trial information from a number of our vendors to make it easier for you to try new products now when there is plenty of time to share with teachers and students and fully evaluate the resource. You can access trial information on this spreadsheet. If you want to see if a trial is available for something not on the spreadsheet, reach out to Laurie Doyle and she can try to secure a trial for you.
Upcoming: Be on the lookout in late April - early May for information on ordering.
If you need help or have questions, please reach out to libraryservices@wswheboces.organd we will get back to you as soon as possible.
News
Job Opportunities
Library Media Specialist - Glens Falls City School
The Glens Falls City School District is a dynamic and inclusive school community focused on the success of all students by fostering diverse pathways, and providing a multitude of engaging experiences. Our district is seeking interested applicants for a full-time 1.0 probationary tenure track Library Media Specialist at the Middle School for the 2025-2026 academic year.
The Library Media Specialist plays a vital role in fostering a love of reading, supporting digital literacy, and integrating technology into the learning environment. This position involves managing the school library, collaborating with teachers to enhance instruction, and providing students with the skills needed to access, evaluate, and use information effectively.
Job Qualifications- Valid NYS Certification as a Library Media Specialist.
- Strong knowledge of children's literature, research skills, and digital tools.
- Experience with integrating technology and digital resources into instruction.
- Ability to collaborate effectively with teachers, administrators, and students.
- Excellent communication and organization skills.
- Familiarity with library management systems and educational tools.
- Background in supporting diverse learners and fostering inclusive library spaces.
Library Media Specialist - Saratoga Springs - Geyser Elementary
Library Media Specialist - Geyser Road Elementary
The Saratoga Springs City School District has an anticipated vacancy and is now accepting applications.
Date of Posting: March 3, 2025
Effective Date: September 1, 2025
Location: Geyser Road Elementary
Certifications/Qualifications: NY State Certified in School Media Specialist
- Individual must be willing and able to multitask in a fast-paced library environment and collaborate with a team of library aides and clerks
- Provide instructional support for teachers and library resources for classes and students
- An understanding of library software and regulations is necessary for school librarians
- Willingness to collaborate with Professional Learning Teams is necessary
- Full-time probationary, tenure-track position
- Salary per the SSTA contract
Application Deadline: April 13, 2025
All interested external applicants must register and apply through RecruitFront. First create an application, then apply to the job posting.
All interested internal applicants please submit a letter of interest (cover letter) through SchoolFront. Letters of interest are no longer accepted through e-mail or hard copy.
Saratoga Springs City School District is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome and celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. The Saratoga Springs City School District does not discriminate in its programs and activities, including employment, on the basis of actual or perceived race, color, creed, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, age, economic status, marital status, veterans' status, political affiliation, or other classifications protected under federal or state law.
Job CategoryInstructionalJob LocationGeyser Road Elem School
https://saratogaschools.recruitfront.com/JobPosting?JID=61742
School Library System Staff
Kerrie Burch, School Library System Director
Karin Howansky, School Library Media Specialist
Laurie Doyle, Information Processing Specialist
Deb Massa, Information Processing Specialist