Check It Out: September 2, 2020

Author Visits (This information is also posted in the General channel of Teams)

With remote learning, there are challenges regarding author visits that we are attempting to navigate:

• Schedule changes: While the schedule is set for 1^st quarter, we know that adjustments may be made at any time. Entering into a contractual agreement for an author visit means committing to a scheduled time for the visit. If the schedule changes after we have contracted with the author and the author cannot accommodate the change,  we are obligated to pay according to the language of the contract.

• Schedule changes: Second quarter and beyond, we do not know what instructional model will be used. This makes it problematic (but not impossible) to schedule author visits.

• “Free” is not always as it appears. While some authors advertise “free visits,” we have to read the fine print. The district does not allow sales of books during instructional time, and our Sherwood author dollars are budgeted for performances not book purchases.

• A virtual visit should probably cost about the same amount as a Skype visit – generally between $50 and $400 dollars per hour per session.

• Many authors will advertise their free presentations on social media, and those presentations where anyone can drop in would be a good alternative. Be advised that you will be a part of a much larger audience, so the questions your students have may or may not be answered.

Here are a few helpful resources for finding free visits, activities:

The Big List of Children’s Authors Doing Online Read-Alouds & Activities

Skype in the Classroom On-Demand Events

If You’re Listening: YA Read Alouds Online

•  If you are going out to a social media site or other venue for a visit, please inform your principal ahead of the event and get approval.

We still have funds for visits, and we still encourage you to explore opportunities. Just be aware that we may ask more questions because of our COVID constraints!

Starting September 1!  McKenzie White will have office hours for librarians and technology teachers. Questions on Office 365, iPads, Teams, or other instructional technology?

When you think "multiple literacies," do you think "coding? Here is one librarian's opinion:

The SLJ Summit is typically a live event. This year it is virtual and on a Saturday, and should be well worth your time! Please consider registering.

SLJ Summit 2020   

Join us Saturday, October 24 for School Library Journal’s annual Summit: Culture Shift. Now in its 16th year, this national convening will focus on creating a culture that promotes an equitable world and closes the opportunity gap for all children.

The following events are free. But you can register and get the recording to view at a later time. They are well worth it:

Equity in Action Fostering an Antiracist Library Culture     Online | Sep 29, Oct 06, Oct 13, 2020 to

In this multifaceted online course, you’ll complete work to ensure that your collections, programs, services, and staff culture are Diverse, Equitable, and Inclusive—with personal coaching from experts from libraries and beyond.

School Library Journal Day of Dialog     Online | Oct 15, 2020

Join us for the most anticipated librarian gathering of the year—now fully virtual and free to attend! Our daylong program of author panels, in-depth conversations, and keynote talks will keep you informed, inspired, and entertained.

One thing I really appreciate about Shannon Miller's blog is her willingness to share her ideas with other librarians.

Find her beginning of the year slides: Weekly Library Events and Monthly Celebrations at The Library Voice.