Alabama Library Special Edition

Welcome to this special edition of our newsletter, dedicated to celebrating the incredible work of Alabama’s K-12 school librarians. These “Chapter Champions” go above and beyond to create vibrant, student-centered, and innovative library programs that inspire both students and educators.

In this issue, we’re shining a spotlight on outstanding librarians who are making a lasting impact in their schools and communities. Join us in honoring their achievements, creativity, and commitment to literacy and learning.

Do you know a librarian who deserves to be featured? Use the Alabama Library Media Shoutout Form at the bottom of this newsletter to nominate someone making a difference. Let’s keep celebrating the amazing work happening in our school libraries across the state!

Wilson Elementary School | Lauderdale County Schools

Nominated by Principal Ashley Delano and LM Admin Tim Tubbs

Mary Leigh Burns brings both structure and heart to her library program, teaching students not only to love reading but also to love themselves and one another. When her district discontinued funding for AR, she creatively introduced Book Reviews with clear expectations and a grade-level competition, keeping students excited and motivated to read. She integrates DLCS standards through fun, authentic projects and always goes above and beyond—like designing schoolwide themes for Read Across America that involve every student and staff member. Her impact is clear: students feel supported, valued, and genuinely excited about reading.

National Board Certified Media Specialist

Oliver Elementary | Russell County

Congratulations to Mrs. Kelley Knoll on achieving National Board Certification—a distinction earned by only 3% of educators nationwide. Honored at the Governor’s Mansion, Mrs. Knoll is one of just 199 Alabama teachers to receive this recognition in 2024. This prestigious certification highlights her expertise in library media, dedication to effective teaching, and unwavering commitment to student learning. Here is a link to a Facebook post with more information.

Highland Park/Webster Elementary | Muscle Shoals City Schools

Congratulations to Deidra Reid Brewer, National Board Certified Library Media Specialist at Highland Park and Webster Elementary Schools, for being named the District 7 Alabama Teacher of the Year! Deidra’s leadership, innovation, and dedication to student success make her a standout educator. Her passion for literacy and commitment to creating engaging, inclusive learning experiences reflect the powerful impact school librarians have across Alabama.

This prestigious recognition was announced by the Alabama State Department of Education in an official press release.

Maddox Intermediate School | Jasper City Schools

Julia Lightsey is redefining the role of the school librarian through the WMIS In-House TV Broadcast Program. This daily, student-led broadcast builds communication, research, and media production skills while fostering school pride and community connection.

📺 Highlights include:

• A mock election on “The Best Pizza in Jasper” with school-wide debates and local leaders.

• Creative promotion for a Community-Wide Book Fair featuring student-led book talks and author reviews.

Praised by district leaders, parents, and students alike, Ms. Lightsey’s innovative work is a model for student engagement and 21st-century learning.

Ladonia Elementary | Russell County Schools

Mrs. Susan Corcoran, recently named Employee of the Month and a RCSD Shining Star, creates a welcoming, student-centered library space that inspires a love for reading and learning. Her engaging lessons and warm personality make the library a safe, exciting place for every student.

🌟 Highlights include:

• Hosting schoolwide events like book fairs

• Managing the 1:1 Chromebook program

• Supporting and collaborating with teachers and district media specialists

Mrs. Corcoran is a dedicated, collaborative colleague known for her support, creativity, and commitment to student success.

In honor of National School Librarian Day on April 4, Mrs. Staci Maynard, librarian at Dannelly Elementary (Montgomery Public Schools), was recognized for her outstanding dedication to students and literacy. Don’t miss the heartwarming Facebook video tribute celebrating her impact in the school community—check it out here!

East Lawrence High | Lawrence County Schools

Librarian Leah Hembree has transformed the East Lawrence High library into a hub of innovation and student engagement. She supports Eagle Brew, a student-run coffee shop housed in the library that funds meaningful library enhancements—most notably the Read & Rewind program, where students use stationary bikes to read, de-stress, and recharge.

🍪Highlights include:

• Monthly specialty drinks and strong student social interaction through Eagle Brew

• Author visits—both in-person and virtual—with writers like Lygia Day Penaflor and Georgina Cross

• Creative events like International Chocolate Day, featuring contests, themed treats, and reading incentives

Students describe the library as “quiet, peaceful, and welcoming,” and credit Ms. Hembree’s leadership for building a space full of color, creativity, and opportunity.

The ALMO newsletter is taking a well-deserved break—bookmark us and check back in August for our Back-to-School Issue, packed with fresh ideas, highlights, and updates to kick off a new chapter in Alabama’s school libraries. Until then, may your summer be filled with good books, great ideas, and just the right amount of quiet.

Don’t miss our final First Fridays session of the school year!

📍 Friday, June 6 | 9:30–10:30 AM
🎤 Featuring Timothy Johnson: AI in the Library

Join us for an exciting session exploring how artificial intelligence can enhance library programs, instruction, and services.

Visit our First Fridays website for session details and to register.

👀 Curious about what’s coming next year?

Take a sneak peek at our 2025–2026 First Fridays calendar here and start planning ahead!

Have questions about school library programs, compliance monitoring, curriculum integration, or best practices? Join my monthly Office Hours—a casual, open forum where K-12 librarians and administrators can connect, ask questions, or just listen in.

Held on the second Tuesday of each month, these sessions alternate between morning and afternoon times to accommodate varying schedules. There’s no need to register—simply drop in using the WebEx link provided.

https://alsde.webex.com/meet/susanne.estes | 25981914173

We have two more sessions left for this school year:

• June 10 | 8:30–9:15 AM

• July 8 | 1:30–2:15 PM

Looking ahead, click here to view the full schedule for the 2025–2026 Library Media Office Hours. We hope to see you there!

Alabama Library Media Online Site

Alabama Library Media Shoutout Form

Newsletter Subscription Form

Professional Learning Form

First Fridays Site

Alabama Library Media Email

Alabama Achieves Website

Office of Student Learning Sway