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Sheldon ISD librarians outline districtwide programs; students and parents praise libraries
Summary
District librarians described literacy instruction, curriculum partnerships, makerspaces, sensory supports and a recording studio across Sheldon ISD libraries; students and parents gave public comments saying libraries provide safe spaces and important access to books and resources.
At the board’s Sept. 23 meeting, Sheldon ISD librarians presented a multi-campus overview of library services and programs, emphasizing literacy, curriculum support and student-centered spaces.
Amanda Chacon (librarian at CEP High School) and Kate Black (school librarian) told trustees that school libraries do far more than circulate books: they support curriculum and instruction, participate in professional learning communities, develop students’ research and information-evaluation skills, and provide 'third-space' environments that support social-emotional learning. Chacon said certified librarians typically have classroom experience, a master’s degree in library science and a Texas librarian certification, and she cited research tying certified librarians to higher student outcomes.
Presenters highlighted hands-on activities at all levels: STEM challenges for pre-K students, research and Braille projects in elementary grades, family literacy events at middle schools, and a high-school makerspace and recording studio where students can explore music and production. Staff also described accommodations such as noise-cancelling headphones, fidget tools and exercise bikes in some libraries to support diverse learners.
Several students and parents spoke in favor of maintaining library services. One student said, 'We need library because we had no library,' and another parent — identified as a district employee — said Sheldon ISD libraries are 'one of a kind' and meet students’ needs across reading levels. Librarians answered trustee questions about schedules and frequency: secondary classes typically visit every two to four weeks, while elementary schedules can be more prescriptive; staff said independent access is also frequent and that usage in August exceeded 2,500 student visits districtwide.
The presentation framed the libraries as instructional partners and safe spaces that support both academic work and broader creativity. Trustees thanked the presenters and proceeded to the consent agenda.
