Work Samples & Reflections
Podcast Episode 1
This podcast was a project for LIS516. It was an exercise to provide access to as many people as possible. It involved creating cover art, a description of the podcast, a title, and a description of the episode, and finding a way to publish it to make it accessible like other podcasts. A follow-up to this podcast, Episode 2, was published as a vodcast on my YouTube channel (see link below). The link is at the bottom of this page. This assignment taught me the importance of accessibility. A true podcast is more than an audio recording file. It should be accessible on most podcast platforms. Another form of accessibility included providing a written transcript for the auditory impaired. I also created a description of the cover art for the visually impaired. This assignment reminded me librarians must keep accessibility in mind in all aspects of service. A podcast would be an excellent way for a school librarian to share knowledge and information. The librarian could also develop staff training where teachers would learn how to create a podcast and different uses.
Presentation on Library Funding
This presentation was one of several for LIS 651. I had to consider the audience and purpose when selecting the delivery method, just as a librarian would when delivering instruction. Canvas or PowerPoint are classic options but aren't the only options. The librarian must stay current with these technologies and share them with the school staff. I chose an unlisted YouTube video created on Canvas for this particular assignment. The more challenging aspect involved creating a script lined up with the slideshow's timing. All photos needed to be credited, and a transcript was provided for increased accessibility. A school librarian can use this screencast to teach students the importance of sourcing the right copyright material and how to cite sources. It is also a good teaching tool for faculty wanting to learn how to create a screencast or add voiceover narration and music to their slideshows.
Bullying PSA
This project was an assignment for LIS 607. The aim was to create a message that would entice a specific audience. Videos do have more appeal than text alone. Adding a green screen and a designated spot in the library for students to film their PSAs, book reviews, or vlogs could be an intriguing addition to any school library. Some schools provide daily announcements on screens. Videos filmed at the library's video station could contribute to that type of media program or club. A PSA or other video can also be a student product or assessment. PSAs allow librarians to reach a wider audience and track the response. For example, the school could notify the community about an upcoming book fair by posting a video on social media. Students working from home would also have access. Meanwhile, teachers could post tutorials for parents or share information. A PSA is an excellent tool for school librarians to consistently promote the library and its resources and services.
History of the Mississippi Department of Archives
Completing this assignment for LIS 636 gave me the ability to experience what students do when writing research papers. It provided the opportunity to search for images with acceptable copyrights and give proper credit. It also taught me more about the state that I live in, and that is new to me. A librarian can not serve the public without knowing its history and the population being served. A research paper is a requirement for every level of schooling. A school librarian could partner with English/Language Arts teachers or Cyber Foundations teachers to create lessons on the process of writing a research paper. A librarian can also support students when collecting resources that are reliable and relevant. This might mean 1-on-1 instruction or with a class.
Library Comparison Infographic
This infographic was an assignment for LIS 651. It is one of many infographics that I've created. More are available below on my sample school website. This infographic required collecting and sorting through data. I determined which data to compare and prepared the infographic on Canvas. The assignment helped me understand the importance of collecting one's data for self-reflection and making adjustments. It is critical for a librarian to keep pace with changes in the patrons and the world. A school librarian can benefit from seeing what other libraries are doing across the district, state, and country. The librarian should promote infographics as student products or assessments. Librarians are diversity champions, so encouraging a more creative and visual assignment is a good reminder for teachers. It can also be used across disciplines.