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The Tisch Family LIbrary: A Hub of Student Learning
Over the past four years, librarian Bethany Cvitkovic has been working to reinvigorate the Tisch Family Library. “I see the library as a hub of the school,” she says, “a place where students can come together and learn in many different ways.” Bethany recently finished the genrefication of the nonfiction section of the library. Genrefication is a method of organizing books by genre, rather than the Dewey decimal system of traditional libraries. It has been found to be more userfriendly, helping students find more books to read that match their interests, and providing classroom teachers access to more resources on specific topics. OLSH’s 10,000 volume collection features current fiction and non-fiction titles, as well as various magazines and newspapers available for personal reading.
The space also stays up to date, offering modern online research tools. POWER Library provides access to educational resources like eBooks, primary source digitized materials, e-resources, and the statewide catalog of materials in libraries throughout Pennsylvania. Other online resources include MackinVia audiobooks and eBooks, Culturegrams, NoodleTools, Gale e-resources, and World Book online.
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Bethany’s goal is to keep the library available as a space for students beyond the traditional reading and research. She has worked to make it a space where students can de-stress while still using problem-solving and other critical thinking skills, offering jigsaw puzzles, coloring pages, board games, and video games. There is even a Makerspace that is updated regularly with new and seasonal materials for students to express their creativity and explore STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, & Mathematics).
The Tisch Family Library is an active, exciting space at OLSH that is constantly evolving to preserve tradition, encourage learning, and support the educational process. •
Mrs. Bethany Cvitkovic, OLSH librarian, checks in with students at the holiday themed Maker Space area in the OLSH library in December.
