Lessons from a Libraryette-does size matter?

Here's what I thought  would happen when our library moved from a large bustling hub of activity to a dorm-room size office area...(and a bookmobile and 5 libraries to share)

• fewer late days picking up, setting up, and feng shui-ing
• so much alone time it might be eerie
• an embedded instructional kumbayah--as we had that in place
• some minor scheduling issues across 6 buildings
• zero need to stock up on K cups---traffic wouldn't warrant it
• a huge void students wanting to be involved; all out recruitment would be key

Here's what REALITY  has taught me in these few short weeks.

Feng-shuing a small space that is multipurpose and functional should be a SEPARATE INTERIOR DESIGN DEGREE...Though a stand up desk and a small pumpkin seem to be a great fit, the rest of my set up is in a constant state of "how about we try this".     

ALONE TIME...hmm....between kids for books, tech dept support, random bldngs and grounds visits updates to windows, wiring, tech; teachers for coffee, teachers and test mods, normal library-ish inquiries, and my classes at other schools--alone time NEVER....today I had to take a phone call in the custodian's closet down the hall.

Embedded instruction...hardest transition yet--who'd a thunk it? we had made SO much progress when were as "one" school....now I'm balancing assertive vs more of a wimpy "if it won't be a bother" (what has happened to me :) in being an instructional partner/leader;  preparing libguides as I perceive needs,  and sharing resources, ideas, plans, & conversations. Negotiating meaningful collaboration across 6 sites, however, is definitely a work in progress as I address logistical and philosophical issues I really didn't forecast.    K-cup brainstorming time is in full swing....never know what ideas surface during a brew cycle!

Students (ones from last year AND new entries) are clamoring for being involved.  Lack of interest is NOT a concern and iStaff  has begun; they want to HELP, CHANGE, BUILD, CREATE, and MAKE THINGS HAPPEN....routinely and sporadically...

As I navigate the waters of cross campus instruction and a library that seats 4 comfortably (but stands 8), I will take my lead from the students....they aren't seeing obstacles, they see opportunities; they aren't concerned about we did before, they want to thrive at NOW...

There is no doubt I didn't forecast much of anything accurately...or so it seems...

There is also no doubt I will use my students as inspiration to moving us forward, rising above, and facing the hiccups head on...it's what we ALL deserve....