Welcome to the first edition of the library's faculty newsletter. I plan to send out news at the end of each nine weeks. As always, let me know if you have suggestions!

Thanks to a Fast Grant from PROF, we now have a graphic novel section. This has quickly become very popular with students. The books have their own space near the reference collection. Let me know if you have any favorites you think students would enjoy!

Eighth-grade students have started using NoodleTools to keep track of their citations and research for their National History Day projects, and it's been working really well so far. If you'd like me to introduce this tool to your classes, let me know.

We now have access to about 500 eBooks and audiobooks through the Pennsylvania Connected Consortium on the MackinVIA platform. Use your school e-mail address and password to log in.

Students quickly became accustomed to using the digital sign in and sign out, and it seems to be working smoothly on the back end. I recently set up a self checkout station where students can use their ID numbers to check out their own library books. While that's been more of an adjustment for them, once they know how to use it, students seem to appreciate having the option if I'm busy with a class or another student or teacher.

On October 7, students had the opportunity to "meet" Jewell Parker Rhodes through a live virtual visit sponsored by Pittsburgh Arts & Lectures. They enjoyed hearing about her writing process and inspiration for writing her most recent book, "Ghost Boys." They also were able to ask her several questions.

I used Breakout EDU's digital platform to create a scavenger hunt for 7th grade library orientation, and students enjoyed it so much ("When are we going to get to do that again??") that I created a Halloween-themed one to reinforce newer library skills. If you're interested in learning more about what this tool can do, I'd love to help you create one for your class!

This free app adds sound effects to picture books, poems and short stories by listening to your voice as you read aloud. Most of the books currently available are for younger children, but I'm hoping they continue to add more to their collection.

Shameless plug: I published an article this month in School Library Connection about virtual reality. I can't wait to take the plunge into VR here!

Want recommendations? Follow me on Goodreads to see what I've been reading lately.

Our library program is most effective when we work together. My library standards are aligned with your PA Core standards to encourage maximum collaboration. I would love to plan and teach lessons with you involving research, literacy, and technology. E-mail me or stop by if you'd like to discuss ideas.

Email: krowe@pinerichland.org
Website: www.pinerichland.org/MSLibrary
Phone: 2241
Twitter: @kdhuthrowe