Hudson library starting a new chapter
Holly Ratcliff
The library is evolving from books and a computer lab to an easily accessible technology hub on campus.
"We don't have a lot of new devices as far as technology goes, but I have been charged with being the educational technology instructor for our campus, so you should have access to better help now," librarian, now also educational technology instructor, Leslie Ashby said.
As students and teachers strive to utilize the new applications of technology in the classroom, the library has adjusted to assist that process.
"We are able to do a little more with technology," Ashby said. "The devices really haven't changed so much as now [students and teachers] have a new resource."
For example, Google Classroom is becoming a regular extension of the classroom, and Mrs. Ashby is the residing guru.
This includes looking up usernames and passwords, helping teachers assign work, and helping students turn in work.
"I come in for the 'Where do I go?', 'What do I do?', and 'What do I click?' questions," Ashby said.
Though embracing her new role as a constant resource for students and teachers alike, Mrs. Ashby is still responsible for the books in the library.
"It's called genrefy," Ashby said. "I want to take the fiction section and instead of alphabetizing it by the author, organize it by the genre."
Instead of wandering aimlessly through a random shelf of books, the library will be organized so students can go straight to the type of book they enjoy, such as vampire books, romance books, mythology books, and so on.
"It is the major project we're tackling this year," Ashby said. "The library will be kind of book store ish."
Mrs. Ashby is also the sponsor for the new book club.
"A student [Luke Alsbrook] decided that he was interested in starting a book club," Ashby said. "He wrote the proposal and sent it to Mr. Courtney, and it was approved. There are about 30 students who signed up and are in the club now."
Rather than having a club book, the students meet to discuss what they are reading individually.
"At this point, we do not have the funding to buy everyone the same book," Ashby said.
The club seems to function as a haven for avid readers to gather and discuss their various literary endeavors.
Mrs. Ashby must just be drawn to those who love literature and various other subjects, because as the presiding UIL coordinator she plans and assists with academia events frequently.
"It really helps that I am in charge of the library, because a lot of the UIL events have a book they have to read," Ashby said. "It's good to have that cross over, because I can order books knowing they'd be good for the UIL and order for UIL knowing it'd be good for the library."
Any student interested in joining a UIL academic team is encouraged to see Mrs. Ashby or Mr. Largent to discuss that possibility.
With the multiple new responsibilities of the library, more help has been brought in.
"I would like for everybody to come and meet Mrs. Lipscomb," Ashby said. "She's our new aid from 12 o'clock to the end of the day every day."
The library is taking a proactive role in increasing technology and student activities.
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