Terry Redlin librarian describes programs behind district library award

Stephanie Hague, the librarian at Terry Redlin Elementary, told the Sioux Falls School District 49-5 Board of Education that a series of literacy and hands-on STEM offerings helped the school be recognized with a district library award.

Hague said Terry Redlin’s library held a “One Book, One School” initiative, Read Across America events, summer reading incentives, a book swap and “book tastings” to introduce students to new genres. “The book vending machine added a little fun and interactive way to reward our readers who demonstrated outstanding behavior,” she said.

Hague credited partnerships with classroom teachers, building administration, the district foundation and volunteers for the programs’ reach. She also thanked the district: “We appreciate the Sioux Falls School District and your support of our schools as we continue to build our lifelong learners and readers and we are truly grateful.”

Board members praised the library’s work. One member noted past traditions at John Harris — including a reading dog and gingerbread house displays — and said the library had been “an integral part” of that building’s community. Another board member relayed an anecdote from a retired teacher: after the first week of school a ninth‑year‑old could not stop telling a grandparent, “My librarian” was their favorite teacher.

The board approved the minutes, agenda and consent agenda earlier in the meeting, and there were no formal votes tied specifically to the library recognition. School officials said the district will provide a vinyl window cling reproducing the state seal to each recognized school to display the award for 2025–2028.

Board members asked Hague to stay nearby for questions and congratulated the Terry Redlin staff.