West Babylon Junior High School is working to transform its library media center into the heart of the school. Michelle Statfeld, the school’s new library media specialist, is working with students daily to build 21st century skills that will help them to become successful.

At the library/media center, students have access to global information sources and use technologies as effective learning and teaching tools. The librarians support the integration of information literacy and technology skills across the curriculum by collaborating with teachers in all subject areas. The library is also a natural place to explore STEM and makerspace activities.

Ms. Statfeld said one of her goals is to teach students to be effective users of ideas and information. She wants students to question and verify sources, use trusted information and research they find on the internet. “We are teaching students to be enthusiastic readers, critical thinkers and skillful researchers,” she said.

In the library’s unplugged STEM Zone, students can come during recess or after school and connect with classmates, play games or try their hand at something different, such a LEGO building, chess or learning calligraphy.

The library currently features a traveling museum exhibit from the Long Island Library Resources Council in collaboration with the West Babylon Public Library. The exhibits are tied to the social studies curriculum and teachers visit the library for push-in lessons related to the different exhibits.

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Date Added: 3/8/2023