School Libraries Supporting Students with Hidden Needs and Talents - by Karla Bame Collins (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

Together, librarians and specialists can create experiences to reach all learners in their buildings, including those with hidden needs and talents.

While school librarians are experts at collaborating with classroom teachers, too often they overlook the specialists in their buildings as key collaborative partners.

Focusing on the many specialists who work with students, Karla Bame Collins provides information about their roles and responsibilities and discusses how school librarians can collaborate to improve learning for all students, including those with hidden needs, disabilities, and talents that are not easily detected and may go undiagnosed. Because librarians work with every student, but may not always be informed about each student's particular needs, it's important for them to know whom in the school to turn to for information. Librarians will gain ideas for working with students to provide the best possible learning environment for each.

This practical book looks at the whole school library environment-collection, instruction, space, and programming-and offers many ideas for librarians to collaborate with other educators and specialists for the good of all students.

Review Quotes

"School Libraries Supporting Students with Hidden Needs and Talents: From ADHD to Vision Impairment is essential reading for both new and experienced librarians. It provides concrete examples and creative strategies to meet the needs of all students. Collins explains specific hidden needs and talents and includes suggestions for how to support students with these physical, mental, emotional, and social needs. Another unique feature is a chapter on universal design for learning and how to apply this framework when designing (or redesigning) a school library space and program. Although grounded in research and educational theories, the tone is conversational. It felt like getting practical advice and lesson suggestions from a trusted friend. I can see myself using this book as a reference tool, returning to it again and again." --Maura Madigan, Librarian and Author of Learning Centers for School Libraries and Project-Based Learning for Elementary Grades

"This book is a clear, concise resource for school librarians, no matter what stage they are in their career. After only one or two exceptional education courses as an undergraduate or graduate student, this book highlights for school librarians current research, lesson/programming applications, and further learning opportunities about hidden needs and talents so all their learners meet success. Education is a collaborative world, and this book helps school librarians find those partners beyond classroom teachers in their school, district, and/or community. School librarians serve all students, teachers, and staff; this book provides a road map for school librarians to make their libraries a learning center for all their members." --Lori E Donovan, Library Services Specialist, Chesterfield County Public Schools, Virginia, USA

"School Libraries Supporting Students with Hidden Needs and Talents: From ADHD to Vision Impairment is a game changer for educators and librarians alike. It goes beyond traditional teaching methods, delving into the nuanced world of supporting students with unseen needs and talents. While general "special needs" issues such as ADHD are covered, the author shines a light on other truly hidden needs, including color vision deficiencies and poverty. What sets this book apart is its emphasis on collaboration and universal design, and it not only explains these broad concepts in a clear and accessible manner, but also provides actionable suggestions in terms of lessons, book titles, etc. that can be implemented immediately. Practical strategies and clever "take a minute" activities allow readers to actually interact with the text. It is a must read for anyone passionate about creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment." --K. Lee De Groft, Director of Library and Information Services, Trinity Preparatory School of Florida, USA

"An approachable book for school librarians at every school level working with young people who have special needs both seen and unseen. Excellent scenarios and ideas for librarians and their peer educators." --Dr. Heather Moorefield Lang, Associate Professor, UNC Greensboro, USA

"An important, browsable introductory resource to spark further learning on supporting students' learning." --School Library Journal

About the Author