Final Reflection - Spring 2025 LSSL 5391 Dig Tech for the School Library


Final Reflection - Book Creator

https://read.bookcreator.com/LG2DFBO0uYYrPwEQIvRxgoDy6T1Yhzks9mAt6s3LWxo/RmApvqx5TCylazV8AmDZTA


When I first enrolled in this course, I figured I had a decent grasp on technology. I could easily navigate apps, troubleshoot the basics, and even teach others a thing or two about digital tools I used in my personal life. But what I quickly realized was that being tech-comfortable as a user didn’t mean I was ready to create with technology or to teach with it. During the course this semester, I also happened to join technology professional developments offered at my campus and I quickly realized there was a lot I did not know, yet I always left feeling excited on how much more I could learn and eventually teach others.


The first few weeks felt like stepping into a cold pool,  a little shocking and slightly uncomfortable, but also kind of exhilarating. Tools like Canva, podcasting platforms, and AI assistants were exciting, but kind of unfamiliar. I was not used to putting my personality into digital products, especially not ones I had to share with others. I felt vulnerable, unsure of my voice, and a little self-conscious that I would appear silly or too young based on my voice. That said, podcasting ended up being a surprising favorite. I had no idea how much creativity could go into such a short audio segment. What struck me most was how practical this could be for school libraries. I could easily imagine students recording book talks, author interviews, or even community spotlights. I came to learn that podcasting is a tool that invites voice, literally, and I love how inclusive that can be. I was most excited to learn about podcasting based on the increase in popularity that pop culture and other social avenues are pursuing. 


I also gained a new appreciation for visual design through tools like Canva. As someone who never thought of themselves as “tech/design-savvy,” I found the templates and drag-and-drop features surprisingly empowering. Designing infographics and newsletters helped me think about communication in a new way, how visuals can shape understanding and engagement. I’ve already started creating ideas for future library initiatives, like next years Battle with Heart club, themed displays, library updates and even student-led news posts.


Throughout the course, I also experimented with AI. I was skeptical at first. But using AI tools like ChatGPT and others to draft newsletters, brainstorm programming ideas, or even write social media blurbs showed me how these tools can save time and spark creativity. Of course, it also reminded me how important it is to apply a critical eye as AI can suggest a lot, but the human touch still matters, especially when it comes to authenticity and context. Something that really stood out to me was how AI is lacking the emotional connection that humans demonstate in their writing, it feels like straight business, but when working with students I think they need more emotional connection than ever to writing, ensuring the librarian uses AI as an aid to spark ideas and not to replace ideas will ensure that the emotions in the writing/ideas are still in tack. 


Looking back, I think the biggest shift for me wasn’t just learning how to use new tools, but it was learning to think like a digital leader. I have always been quite hesitant to jump into a rabbit hole of technology tools because I know how exciting and time consuming it all can be. I started the semester as a cautious participant, and I’m ending it as someone who feels ready to help others explore, create, and grow in digital spaces, especially after having the courage to join technology professional developments on specific tools, which would be something I would have never done before. Whether it’s guiding a student through a research project, creating a vibrant library newsletter, or collaborating with teachers on technology lessons, I feel more ready and excited than ever.


Most importantly, I’ve learned that technology in the library isn’t about having all the answers or being the most tech-savvy person in the room. It’s about being open to learning, willing to experiment, and ready to walk alongside students and teachers as they explore new possibilities. And honestly? That feels like exactly the kind of librarian I want to be. As teachers and librarians we are life long learners who should model being willing and eager to try new things to expand our educational experiences. 

Comments

  1. Elizabeth Gross5 May 2025 at 15:07

    This is a great summary of what I'm hoping you came away with. Thanks for a great semester!

    ReplyDelete

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