Inquire - Betsy Long

Betsy Long is the media specialist at Doby's Mill Elementary School in Kershaw County.  In a personal interview, she was asked to share how she implements the AASL National School Library Standards for Learners, School Librarians, and School Libraries in her library program.  Specifically, Betsy was asked to share how she implements the shared foundation inquire.

When asked to share some examples of the ways in which she is implementing the shared foundation inquire into her library program, she shared the following ways:

• Simple 4 model
• Research Units with each grade
• Author Studies
• Makerspaces

Betsy shared that each year she collaborates with teachers to plan at least two research projects in each grade level.  She shared that second graders always complete a project on careers.  Also, she works with kindergarteners by completing a picture research project.  In addition, Betsy shared that she uses the district Simple 4 model of research with the older grades at her school when completing research projects as it is more detailed.  Another way that she incorporates inquiry into her library program is by having author studies.  Finally, Betsy encourages students to participate in Makerspace activities.  

Betsy was asked what resources she had available to promote inquiry.  She stated that she utilizes Pebble Go the most with students because it is more suitable for younger students.  However, she did share that she uses some DISCUS databases with students once they reach 3rd grade.  Additionally, she has KEVA planks in her library, and students create mosaics by using Rubik's Cubes.

Betsy shared that she does collaborate with teachers to plan inquiry based projects.  However, this planning is never via a formal sit down.  She stated that most planning occurs through emails or by simply passing by one another in the hallway.  Betsy stated that for the she learns what teachers are doing in their classrooms by attending meetings, and she tries to plan activities to supplement instruction.

When asked how she struggles with implementing the shared foundation of inquire, she stated that the majority of her problems come from the 4th grade teachers.  Betsy shared that the teachers in this grade level are veteran teachers and express that they do not need outside help.  Betsy stated that she does try with that grade level, offering assistance when she feels it is appropriate; however, the teachers do not utilize her because of the pressure to cover the standards.

Betsy Long stated that the school now totally one-to-one.  This has really changed library usage.  Teachers are now more likely to feel they do not need her assistance because every student has a device.  She stated that it is just too easy for students to perform a Google search for information rather than using the creditable resources that are available to them through the district and the state.