WOODBURY – We see them everyday. They are the facilitators; they are resource helpers; they are our library media specialists.

This year, Library Media Specialist Deborah Flaherty and Library Assistants Stephine Deering and Dawn Maletzke have seen the role of a library media specialist expand in new and exciting ways.

“Every year my role in the classroom is different,” said NHS Library Media Specialist Deborah Flaherty. “Usually determined by the teacher’s request for support on certain skills or activities.”

Beyond assisting faculty, NHS library staff works hard to ensure that students have the tools they need in order to succeed in their classes. 

“Learning to use our databases and research tools is often popular with the freshmen and sophomore classes,” Flaherty said. “I also prepare book talks for free read activities and sometimes present different technology tools as ideas for final product choices on various projects.”

Despite the many new and exciting things the library is doing on campus, Flaherty and library staff run into an issue faced by all NHS instructors: the limitations of time.

“I think many people have that same [problem],” said Flaherty. “My role being what it is means that I am often at the beck and call of everyone’s needs, which is fine, it’s part of my job, but it often makes it difficult to get to my list of things to do.  I never have time to read while at work, even though books are a huge part of my job.”

For NHS library assistant, Stephanie Deering, she understands that the role of the LMC is continuously evolving. 

“Students picture us librarians at the front desk, putting books back on the shelf or yelling at students to be quiet,” said assistant librarian Stephine Deering. “But something I like to do in my free time is decorate the custodians’ office throughout the year to show them how much they are appreciated.”

NHS faculty also appreciate the efforts made by LMC staff. 

“I love bringing my class to the LMC to do lessons with Mrs. Flaherty, lessons such as the use of A.I.,” said Maura White. “[Working with the LMC] helps young readers be more involved in their reader careers.” 

“The LMC has helped my class in numerous ways,” said Marisa Christoff.  “We go to the library often to get secondary sources when learning a certain topic.”

While the library is an academic resource on campus, both Flaherty and Deering understand their role is critical to the learning environment. 

“Being able to bring light to someone’s day and lend a helping hand makes my job wonderful and fulfilling,” Deering said.