The Distracted Librarian

I found myself thinking about the question, “Who is the library for?” as I finished the Module 3 and 4 readings. This question has been floating in my mind for some time. It first arose last Spring when I was visiting a public library in the Texas Panhandle. The library was quiet, almost sterile, with one or two patrons reading at tables. My friend, I, and her tornado of a toddler entered looking for books to read. We were shushed multiple times in the course of ten minutes because the toddler was excitedly searching for books and speaking loudly. I didn’t feel like we were welcomed there, even though we…

Hello! My name is Bernadette Escamilla, and I’m in my penultimate semester of the MLIS program. I only have e-port left after this semester. I’m excited that this is my last full semester of my MLIS. While I enjoy being in school, it’s difficult being a full-time student and full-time adult! I’m focusing on the public librarian pathway, with an eye toward young adult or teen librarian. I’ve taught middle and high school special education for the past 15 years. I stepped into a new role as a high school Reading Specialist last year, and I’m excited to see how what I learn in the class can add to my…