By: Julian Silva-Forbes
The Saratoga Springs high school library is adapting to the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic through online book requests and virtual programming. Ms. Duchaussee and Ms. Nemeth, the school librarians, are leading these changes.
“Right now, our focus is on getting books to kids who want them,” said Nemeth. High school students can request books from the library through an online form, and then pick up the books from a cart in front of the library at the end of each school day. Duchaussee said, “We have to quarantine the books for seven days when they come back.”
Meanwhile, the librarians have developed online alternatives to their normal programming. These include “Wednesday spotlights” of different book genres on the library website, virtual book talks, and instructional research videos. Duchaussee said, “I’m using Canvas to build modules with instructional videos and teaching how to research and do your works cited.”
The librarians hope that these changes can help recreate the pre-Covid library experience. Duchaussee said, “We’re just trying to meet students’ needs in a crazy time.” The library is open to students for college visits, and Nemeth and Duchaussee are preparing for the possibility of students gradually being allowed into the library as soon as the next academic quarter. Addressing the SSHS student body, Nemeth said, “We’re here for you. Email us for books, help with projects, anything. We’re here.”