Library Link: January 2026 Supervisor's Nook

As we welcome the new year, it’s a meaningful time to reflect on the vital role libraries and librarians continue to play in our schools and communities. Libraries remain dynamic spaces for inquiry, creativity, connection, and access—supporting students not only as learners, but as critical thinkers, effective communicators, and engaged citizens. The work of school librarians is more important than ever as we navigate evolving technologies, information landscapes, and the diverse needs of our students.

Over the past months, I’ve had the pleasure of visiting with several new librarians across our region. These visits have been energizing and inspiring, highlighting the thoughtful work happening in libraries every day and the strong commitment new professionals bring to their roles. 

December also marked a major highlight with the successful 2025 SLSA Symposium. The event brought together librarians from across NY State for meaningful learning, collaboration, and shared reflection. The conversations and connections that emerged continue to reinforce the strength of our professional community and our shared dedication to student success.

Looking ahead to the spring, we will continue our work around library intervisitations. These opportunities for librarians to observe, share, and reflect on practice with colleagues across districts remain a powerful form of professional learning. Intervisitations foster collaboration, spark new ideas, and strengthen our collective understanding of how libraries can support teaching and learning in meaningful ways. If you are interested in visiting or hosting (or both!), please complete this form.

In addition, significant work is underway on the 2026–2031 SLS Plan of Service. This plan will help guide our priorities and outline key goals over the coming years, ensuring they remain responsive to the needs of our member districts and aligned with statewide initiatives. To support this process, a survey will be shared soon via the listserv, and your feedback will be essential in shaping the direction of our work. I encourage everyone to take a few moments to share their perspectives when it arrives.

As we move forward into the new year, I look forward to continued collaboration, learning, and celebrating the impactful work happening in our libraries every day.