Activity Details
Title: PSLA Fall Spectacular Author Series
Narrative: Coordinated with The Author Village, this 10-night series of author pairings was designed exclusively for PSLA members. Members had an opportunity to engage, learn about the author's experiences and enjoy relaxing conversations. This provided members with an opportunity to expand their knowledge base and make connections for future author visits in their school libraries. Sixty PSLA Members registered for this series. Typical “live, in-person” participation was between 8-12 members. Each one-hour session was recorded and placed on Vimeo, which is password-protected. All registered members can view the videos for one year. The authors permitted the registered librarians to share the interviews with their students if they wished as well as share the information gleaned from the sessions. The author sessions included:Torrey Maldonado and Meg Medina, Matthew Cordell and Kevin Lewis, Tiffany Jewell and Kass Minor, Jasmine Warga and Brendan Kiely, Elana K. Arnold and Brandy Colbert, and Andrea Wang and Jason Chin.
Intent: Improve the library workforce.
Activity: Instruction
Mode: Presentation/performance
Format: Virtual
Quantity
Presentation/performance length (minutes): 60
Number of presentations/performances administered: 6
Average number in attendance per session: 12
Partner Information
Organization Type of Partner Organization(s):
Libraries: Yes
Historical Societies or Organizations: No
Museums: No
Archives: No
Cultural Heritage Organization Multi-type: No
Preschools: No
Schools: No
Adult Education: No
Human Service Organizations: No
Other: No
Legal Type of Partner Organization(s):
Federal Government: No
State Government: No
Local Government (excluding school districts): No
School District: No
Non-Profit: No
Private Sector: No
Tribe/Native Hawaiian Organization: No
Beneficiaries
Is the activity directed at the library workforce: Yes
For a targeted group or for the general population: General
Locale
Is the activity state-wide: Yes
Specific Locations: No
Library Types
Public Libraries: 0
Academic Libraries: 12
SLAA: 0
Consortia: 0
Special Libraries: 0
School Libraries: 0
Other: 0
Activity Details
Title: News for PA School Librarians
Narrative: The immediate past president worked with the LSTA Grant Coordinator on updating the contact list for each of the 500 PA school districts to better reach as many school librarians across the state. A new distribution sign up sheet has been created and continues to be monitored to ensure the correct person in each district is being reached. Information has been gathered by PSLA committee co-chairs and board members, Governor's Advisory Council (GAC) members, and Office of Commonwealth Libraries. The News is also sent through the SCHOOLS Listserv and through the PSLA Listserv. The newsletter issues of the newsletter were sent out at the end of each month and can be found at the links below.
Intent: Improve the library workforce.
Activity: Content
Mode: Creation
Format: Digital
Quantity
Number of items digitized: 0
Number of items digitized and available to the public: 0
Number of physical items: 0
Number of open-source applications/software/systems: 0
Number of proprietary applications/software/systems: 0
Number of learning resources (e.g. toolkits, guides): 4
Number of plans/frameworks: 0
Partner Information
Organization Type of Partner Organization(s):
Libraries: Yes
Historical Societies or Organizations: No
Museums: No
Archives: No
Cultural Heritage Organization Multi-type: No
Preschools: No
Schools: No
Adult Education: No
Human Service Organizations: No
Other: No
Legal Type of Partner Organization(s):
Federal Government: No
State Government: No
Local Government (excluding school districts): No
School District: No
Non-Profit: No
Private Sector: No
Tribe/Native Hawaiian Organization: No
Beneficiaries
Is the activity directed at the library workforce: Yes
For a targeted group or for the general population: General
Locale
Is the activity state-wide: Yes
Specific Locations: No
Library Types
Public Libraries: 0
Academic Libraries: 0
SLAA: 0
Consortia: 0
Special Libraries: 0
School Libraries: 0
Other: 0
Question 1: I am satisfied that the resource is meeting library needs.
Strongly Agree: 0
Agree: 0
Neither Agree nor Disagree: 0
Disagree: 0
Strongly Disagree: 0
Non-Response: 0
Question 2: Applying the resource will help improve library services to the public.
Strongly Agree: 0
Agree: 0
Neither Agree nor Disagree: 0
Disagree: 0
Strongly Disagree: 0
Non-Response: 0
Activity Details
Title: Connections, Solutions, Initiatives Retreat
Narrative: A team of 10 PSLA members from across the state met in State College, PA in May 2024 with the intent to develop a new approach to statewide school librarian leadership. The retreat members decided to create a statewide Professional Learning Network/Community of Practice (COP). The hope is that this COP will invite more participation in the statewide school librarians network and restore community amongst this professional group. During the retreat, the group created a belief statement, developed logistics and protocol, created lists of facilitators, and a rollout plan. The need for this initiative arose during a 2024 PSLA Preconference, in which a vast majority of respondents indicated a desire for more regional training, more opportunity to connect in-person with local colleagues, more focus on education trends, and the opportunity to learn and grow professionally. This initiative will address many of those areas of need through professional development, community education and community engaged. Our hope is that this new initiative will impact the 500 school districts in PA and their thousands of students and faculty.
Intent: Improve the library workforce.
Activity: Content
Mode: Creation
Format: Physical
Quantity
Number of items digitized: 0
Number of items digitized and available to the public: 0
Number of physical items: 0
Number of open-source applications/software/systems: 0
Number of proprietary applications/software/systems: 0
Number of learning resources (e.g. toolkits, guides): 0
Number of plans/frameworks: 1
Partner Information
Organization Type of Partner Organization(s):
Libraries: Yes
Historical Societies or Organizations: No
Museums: No
Archives: No
Cultural Heritage Organization Multi-type: No
Preschools: No
Schools: No
Adult Education: No
Human Service Organizations: No
Other: No
Legal Type of Partner Organization(s):
Federal Government: No
State Government: No
Local Government (excluding school districts): No
School District: No
Non-Profit: No
Private Sector: No
Tribe/Native Hawaiian Organization: No
Beneficiaries
Is the activity directed at the library workforce: Yes
For a targeted group or for the general population: General
Locale
Is the activity state-wide: Yes
Specific Locations: No
Library Types
Public Libraries: 0
Academic Libraries: 0
SLAA: 0
Consortia: 0
Special Libraries: 0
School Libraries: 10
Other: 0
Question 1: I am satisfied that the resource is meeting library needs.
Strongly Agree: 0
Agree: 0
Neither Agree nor Disagree: 0
Disagree: 0
Strongly Disagree: 0
Non-Response: 0
Question 2: Applying the resource will help improve library services to the public.
Strongly Agree: 0
Agree: 0
Neither Agree nor Disagree: 0
Disagree: 0
Strongly Disagree: 0
Non-Response: 0
Activity Details
Title: One Book, One Association Book Club
Narrative: One Book, One Association Book Clubs are a popular program for Pennsylvania School Librarians. They have built community and encouraged communication and connections across the state. Many librarians have inquired about how to implement a similar book study in their own school communities, whether with their colleagues or their students. These book based conversations also help to keep participants updated about current book trends and offerings for our schools. Logistical improvements were made to this program as well. PSLA began operating the membership online forum through Memberclicks. Additionally, using the new Vimeo account, PSLA now offers online recorded professional development that is self-paced and available behind a password-protected platform. There was an increase in membership due to this offering from the fall author series to the summer professional development.
Intent: Improve the library workforce.
Activity: Instruction
Mode: Program
Format: Virtual
Quantity
Session length (minutes): 60
Number of sessions in program: 2
Average number in attendance per session: 37
Number of times program administered: 1
Partner Information
Organization Type of Partner Organization(s):
Libraries: Yes
Historical Societies or Organizations: No
Museums: No
Archives: No
Cultural Heritage Organization Multi-type: No
Preschools: No
Schools: No
Adult Education: No
Human Service Organizations: No
Other: No
Legal Type of Partner Organization(s):
Federal Government: No
State Government: No
Local Government (excluding school districts): No
School District: No
Non-Profit: No
Private Sector: No
Tribe/Native Hawaiian Organization: No
Beneficiaries
Is the activity directed at the library workforce: Yes
For a targeted group or for the general population: General
Locale
Is the activity state-wide: Yes
Specific Locations: No
Library Types
Public Libraries: 0
Academic Libraries: 0
SLAA: 0
Consortia: 0
Special Libraries: 0
School Libraries: 37
Other: 0
Question 1: I learned something by participating in this library activity.
Strongly Agree: 151
Agree: 23
Neither Agree nor Disagree: 0
Disagree: 0
Strongly Disagree: 0
Non-Response: 0
Question 2: I feel more confident about what I just learned.
Strongly Agree: 141
Agree: 31
Neither Agree nor Disagree: 2
Disagree: 0
Strongly Disagree: 0
Non-Response: 0
Question 3: I intend to apply what I just learned.
Strongly Agree: 141
Agree: 32
Neither Agree nor Disagree: 1
Disagree: 0
Strongly Disagree: 0
Non-Response: 0
Question 4: Applying what I learned will help improve library services to the public.
Strongly Agree: 146
Agree: 25
Neither Agree nor Disagree: 3
Disagree: 0
Strongly Disagree: 0
Non-Response: 0
Activity Details
Title: Zindzi Cresswell's Self-Paced Courses and Workbooks
Narrative: 28 PSLA members participated in a 3-day workshop hosted by Matt Finch and Zindzi Cresswell entitled Exploring the Work that Matters. Zindzi Cresswell developed two self-paced professional development series for PSLA members. These instructional videos (Exploring the Work that Matters and Scenario Planning) and self-guided workbooks contain approximately two hours of content each. The videos and workbooks are housed on the password-protected Vimeo site and are available to all members until June 2025.
Intent: Improve the library workforce.
Activity: Instruction
Mode: Presentation/performance
Format: Virtual
Quantity
Presentation/performance length (minutes): 120
Number of presentations/performances administered: 2
Average number in attendance per session: 10
Partner Information
Organization Type of Partner Organization(s):
Libraries: Yes
Historical Societies or Organizations: No
Museums: No
Archives: No
Cultural Heritage Organization Multi-type: No
Preschools: No
Schools: No
Adult Education: No
Human Service Organizations: No
Other: No
Legal Type of Partner Organization(s):
Federal Government: No
State Government: No
Local Government (excluding school districts): No
School District: No
Non-Profit: No
Private Sector: No
Tribe/Native Hawaiian Organization: No
Beneficiaries
Is the activity directed at the library workforce: Yes
For a targeted group or for the general population: General
Locale
Is the activity state-wide: Yes
Specific Locations: No
Library Types
Public Libraries: 0
Academic Libraries: 0
SLAA: 0
Consortia: 0
Special Libraries: 0
School Libraries: 17
Other: 0
Activity Details
Title: Addressing Materials Challenges with Bishop and Weeks
Narrative: 16 PSLA members registered for this two-part workshop created by Bishop and Weeks Communication Consulting for PSLA. Addressing Materials Challenges provided strategies to address challenges when they happen face-to-face or on the phone. This workshop included plenty of practice so that each participant could grow in confidence in addressing challenges. In addition, Bishop and Weeks encouraged participants to share their experiences and advice. The second part of the workshop focused on self-care strategies including mindfulness activities and group support. Due to relatively low attendance, PSLA is working with the consultants to refine the videos and discussion points and offer the course again at a more optimal time of the year. Timing is everything, and unfortunately, these workshops were held at the end of the school year. The end result of this workshop is less stress for the school librarians so that the focus can be on their students, on their practice in their school communities, and on their better overall mind and health.
Intent: Improve the library workforce.
Activity: Instruction
Mode: Program
Format: Virtual
Quantity
Session length (minutes): 120
Number of sessions in program: 2
Average number in attendance per session: 10
Number of times program administered: 1
Partner Information
Organization Type of Partner Organization(s):
Libraries: Yes
Historical Societies or Organizations: No
Museums: No
Archives: No
Cultural Heritage Organization Multi-type: No
Preschools: No
Schools: No
Adult Education: No
Human Service Organizations: No
Other: No
Legal Type of Partner Organization(s):
Federal Government: No
State Government: No
Local Government (excluding school districts): No
School District: No
Non-Profit: No
Private Sector: No
Tribe/Native Hawaiian Organization: No
Beneficiaries
Is the activity directed at the library workforce: Yes
For a targeted group or for the general population: General
Locale
Is the activity state-wide: Yes
Specific Locations: No
Library Types
Public Libraries: 0
Academic Libraries: 0
SLAA: 0
Consortia: 0
Special Libraries: 0
School Libraries: 10
Other: 0
Question 1: I learned something by participating in this library activity.
Strongly Agree: 2
Agree: 2
Neither Agree nor Disagree: 1
Disagree: 0
Strongly Disagree: 0
Non-Response: 0
Question 2: I feel more confident about what I just learned.
Strongly Agree: 2
Agree: 2
Neither Agree nor Disagree: 1
Disagree: 0
Strongly Disagree: 0
Non-Response: 0
Question 3: I intend to apply what I just learned.
Strongly Agree: 2
Agree: 2
Neither Agree nor Disagree: 1
Disagree: 0
Strongly Disagree: 0
Non-Response: 0
Question 4: Applying what I learned will help improve library services to the public.
Strongly Agree: 2
Agree: 2
Neither Agree nor Disagree: 1
Disagree: 0
Strongly Disagree: 0
Non-Response: 0
Activity Details
Title: Exploring the Work that Matters
Narrative: On June 19 and June 26, 2024, 5 PSLA members from the original workshop regrouped to reflect on the past year, the work from last summer and its impact on this past school year, as well as imagine the future work that still needs to be accomplished for the school communities. In the first session, participants looked back at the past year together. They talked about what they strived to do, what went well, what was tough, and what they hoped to achieve next year. Participants celebrated successes, talked about common challenges faced, what learning they brought into r schools and started to plan for the future. In the second session attendees discussed the value, power, and meaning of the work done in libraries. They used an imagination practice to think about what's possible and then dug into what this meant in the next year and beyond.
Intent: Improve the library workforce.
Activity: Instruction
Mode: Program
Format: Virtual
Quantity
Session length (minutes): 90
Number of sessions in program: 2
Average number in attendance per session: 5
Number of times program administered: 1
Partner Information
Organization Type of Partner Organization(s):
Libraries: Yes
Historical Societies or Organizations: No
Museums: No
Archives: No
Cultural Heritage Organization Multi-type: No
Preschools: No
Schools: No
Adult Education: No
Human Service Organizations: No
Other: No
Legal Type of Partner Organization(s):
Federal Government: No
State Government: No
Local Government (excluding school districts): No
School District: No
Non-Profit: No
Private Sector: No
Tribe/Native Hawaiian Organization: No
Beneficiaries
Is the activity directed at the library workforce: Yes
For a targeted group or for the general population: General
Locale
Is the activity state-wide: Yes
Specific Locations: No
Library Types
Public Libraries: 0
Academic Libraries: 0
SLAA: 0
Consortia: 0
Special Libraries: 0
School Libraries: 7
Other: 0
Question 1: I learned something by participating in this library activity.
Strongly Agree: 3
Agree: 0
Neither Agree nor Disagree: 0
Disagree: 0
Strongly Disagree: 0
Non-Response: 0
Question 2: I feel more confident about what I just learned.
Strongly Agree: 3
Agree: 0
Neither Agree nor Disagree: 0
Disagree: 0
Strongly Disagree: 0
Non-Response: 0
Question 3: I intend to apply what I just learned.
Strongly Agree: 3
Agree: 0
Neither Agree nor Disagree: 0
Disagree: 0
Strongly Disagree: 0
Non-Response: 0
Question 4: Applying what I learned will help improve library services to the public.
Strongly Agree: 3
Agree: 0
Neither Agree nor Disagree: 0
Disagree: 0
Strongly Disagree: 0
Non-Response: 0
Activity Details
Title: Model Curriculum Update
Narrative: At the pre-conference session on April 11, 2024, the model curriculum team delivered "Phase 5" of the Model Curriculum for Learners in PA School Libraries to 125 registered PSLA members. The team reviewed the history of the model curriculum, broke down each grade level band (AASL Framework), and showed one exemplar per grade band that each team had created. The team explained the learning plan template, and then broke off into each grade band helping the participants to create their own. Participants were asked to sit within their grade bands to be able to talk with other PSLA members from across the state, hear about others' curricula and units of study, and to help connect, communicate, and create community, our three grant initiatives. Participants were able to design solid learning plans prior to the conclusion of the workshop.
Intent: Improve the library workforce.
Activity: Instruction
Mode: Program
Format: In-person
Quantity
Session length (minutes): 180
Number of sessions in program: 1
Average number in attendance per session: 85
Number of times program administered: 2
Partner Information
Organization Type of Partner Organization(s):
Libraries: Yes
Historical Societies or Organizations: No
Museums: No
Archives: No
Cultural Heritage Organization Multi-type: No
Preschools: No
Schools: No
Adult Education: No
Human Service Organizations: No
Other: No
Legal Type of Partner Organization(s):
Federal Government: No
State Government: No
Local Government (excluding school districts): No
School District: No
Non-Profit: No
Private Sector: No
Tribe/Native Hawaiian Organization: No
Beneficiaries
Is the activity directed at the library workforce: Yes
For a targeted group or for the general population: General
Locale
Is the activity state-wide: Yes
Specific Locations: No
Library Types
Public Libraries: 0
Academic Libraries: 0
SLAA: 0
Consortia: 0
Special Libraries: 0
School Libraries: 165
Other: 0
Question 1: I learned something by participating in this library activity.
Strongly Agree: 47
Agree: 15
Neither Agree nor Disagree: 2
Disagree: 0
Strongly Disagree: 0
Non-Response: 0
Question 2: I feel more confident about what I just learned.
Strongly Agree: 40
Agree: 20
Neither Agree nor Disagree: 4
Disagree: 0
Strongly Disagree: 0
Non-Response: 0
Question 3: I intend to apply what I just learned.
Strongly Agree: 40
Agree: 21
Neither Agree nor Disagree: 3
Disagree: 0
Strongly Disagree: 0
Non-Response: 0
Question 4: Applying what I learned will help improve library services to the public.
Strongly Agree: 42
Agree: 20
Neither Agree nor Disagree: 2
Disagree: 0
Strongly Disagree: 0
Non-Response: 0
