Middle school librarian Lindsey Keown shares with Shannon McClintock Miller how her Cardboard Creation Station turns recycled materials into a student-led innovation hub. She explains how she fosters independence, supports design thinking, manages an open-access MakerSpace, and builds a strong culture of creativity and collaboration.

In this episode Shannon McClintock Miller sits down with Future Ready Librarian, Pam Zettervall, who shares her journey from classroom teacher to educational technology coordinator. They dive into what inspired the shift, how global professional development and “Pop-Up PD” sessions fuel innovation, and why embracing certifications and new opportunities continues to shape her path. It’s a story of growth, reinvention, and staying inspired in a constantly evolving educational landscape.

Join Kristina Presley to discuss "ditching" traditional library expectations through color-coding, labeling, and re-organization to find out how you can transform your space into a student-led hub of discovery. Discover practical, "in the trenches" strategies to break down barriers for young learners and streamline the library experience for students and teachers alike.

In this episode of Leading from the Library, host Shannon McClintock Miller welcomes educator, author, and former teacher librarian Jennifer Casa-Todd to discuss the new Digital Media Literacy Toolbox created by Canadian School Libraries. Together, they explore how librarians can support students and educators in navigating today’s digital world through media literacy, digital wellness, and AI literacy. Jennifer shares how the toolbox was designed around three essential pillars — Feel, Think, and Do — helping school librarians foster student well-being, critical thinking, creativity, leadership, and positive digital engagement. The conversation dives into: • AI literacy and digital citizenship • Student leadership and agency • Media literacy frameworks for schools • Digital wellness and screen time conversations • Practical classroom and library applications • Resources librarians can use right away Jennifer also explains how librarians everywhere can contribute their own “See It in Action” examples to help grow this collaborative global resource for school libraries. Whether you’re a librarian, educator, administrator, or instructional leader, this episode offers practical ideas and inspiration for empowering students to thrive in a rapidly changing digital landscape. Learn more about the Digital Media Literacy Toolbox from Canadian School Libraries and explore resources for AI and media literacy in school libraries. Guest Name: Jennifer Casa-Todd Guest Socials: JCasaTodd

Discover how a school librarian and classroom teacher are transforming learning through “edutainment” in this energizing episode of Leading from the Library. Host Shannon McClintock Miller sits down with Amanda Graves and Cathy Fernandez to explore how collaboration can turn everyday lessons into unforgettable experiences. Using wrestling-inspired “rounds” like the Tag Team Title Match, Lights, Camera, Curriculum, and Curriculum Cage Match, Amanda and Cathy share how they blend curriculum, creativity, and fun to boost student engagement while still meeting rigorous standards. From interactive game-show-style reviews and media literacy challenges using The Big Fib podcast to grant-funded projects, virtual author visits, and “National Pickle Day” activities, this episode is packed with practical ideas educators can bring into their own schools. The conversation highlights the power of librarian-teacher partnerships, the importance of joyful learning, and how collaboration can create championship-level instruction that students never forget. Watch their wrestling-inspired collaboration video here: https://youtu.be/z_fEWzRWmE0?si=J7y9bzwbSUQPTpa3 Guest Name: Amanda Graves and Cathy Fernandez Guest social media: Amanda: @themerrylibrary

In this episode of Leading from the Library, host Shannon McClintock Miller welcomes dynamic Texas librarians Erica White and Erika Rocha, who share an engaging look into innovative practices happening across their schools and district. Together, they explore how creativity, collaboration, and student voice are shaping modern library programs. Listeners will hear how Erica and Erika are bringing learning to life through projects like student-created true crime podcasts, hands-on maker activities using tools like Chompsaws, and the use of interactive technologies such as JuiceBots to support multilingual, accessible storytime experiences. They also discuss district-wide initiatives, including expanding librarian staffing, fostering collaboration across campuses, and celebrating reading through programs like Beanstack. Throughout the conversation, the guests offer practical insights and inspiration for librarians looking to elevate engagement, build community, and advocate for impactful library spaces. This episode is filled with real-world ideas, joyful moments, and forward-thinking strategies that highlight what it means to truly lead from the library.

In this episode, Shannon McClintock Miller sits down with Nicholas Moore, an inspiring elementary school librarian in Metro Atlanta, to explore what it truly takes to build and sustain a thriving reading culture. Nic shares practical strategies for engaging students, collaborating with teachers, and fostering a love of reading that lasts.

School librarians face a growing challenge: increasing student needs, shrinking budgets, and limited time to advocate for stronger collections. Jean will share how the grant enabled her to transform a key part of her collection. If you’ve ever wished you could secure additional funding—but weren’t sure where to begin—this conversation is designed for you.

Allie Cornejo engages in a thoughtful conversation about how digital citizenship is changing in the age of AI. She reflects on the questions schools are wrestling with, including accuracy, bias, authorship, and responsibility, and discusses how librarians can help shape a culture where students learn to think critically and act ethically in an AI-driven world.

Join librarians from two neighboring districts as they share how collaboration across district lines is transforming library programs. Discover practical ways to build partnerships, share resources, and spark innovation through collective support. Whether you're looking to connect with nearby colleagues or start your own collaborative efforts, this session will inspire you to make every day a beautiful day in your library neighborhood.