One of my teachers said it best: "I thought it might be fun to be a librarian, but then I see you doing inventory, and I think no, that's not fun, that's hard."
We are in our last week of the school year. Students finish on Thursday, and teachers finish on Friday. My work calendar extends into next week; librarians have to compile an end-of-year report, wrap up finances, and clean up the library space after the majority of patrons are off for the summer.
Inventory is supposed to be finished this week, as final reports are run over Memorial Day weekend. With over twenty-thousand cataloged items in our collection ranging from children's books to teaching kits, it is a daunting task that began back in February.
We are currently sitting at four hundred thirty-nine uninventoried items. Students are still holding on to a hundred books that were supposed to be turned in on May eighth. Six teachers still need their inventory completed. Summer reading lessons need to be taught, and reading game sheets distributed. I am without an assistant the last two days this week.
I want to enjoy this last week with the students, but the clock is ticking...
Ah, yes, the springtime of inventory! I have fond memories of inventory with the three years I spent in the media center, but thank goodness our media assistant was such a pro at this. She's retiring this year, and she will be sorely missed. There is no one on this earth as valuable as a librarian and media assistant - - my hat is off to you and the great work you do as a team! All the fun of reading and creativity of books still has to have accountability......I mean, otherwise everyone would want to be a media specialist, right? I love the way your friend saw inventory as a downside (truth is, it's the quietest time of the year....but we won't tell a soul).
ReplyDeleteThat is a big ask. I feel those books still in backpacks and bedsides and in their "dad's car." I remember some bribery happening with my librarian. I wish you well in your challenges- I am sure many could offer suggestions, but remember to take care of yourself. You are one person. You deserve a summer too.
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