By Lindsay Carriere
The Highs and Lows of Weeding a School Library Collection
Abstract
This paper outlines the process and reflections of a teacher-librarian during the on-going professional task of weeding the school library collection. The author discusses why we weed, feelings and emotions around it including community reaction, and equity issues with examples. Resources used include Canadian School Libraries Collection Diversity Toolkit. On a personal level Lindsay says that she has a love-hate relationship with weeding. She finds it cathartic to cleanse the shelves and put lost books back into place. There is something about books lined up neatly and organized that brings her joy and tranquility. Lindsay discovered that there was much more to weeding, so much more. Journey with Lindsay on her documented quest to rebuild a better more inclusive collection for her school library learning commons.
Lindsay Carriere is a full-time teacher-librarian for the Peel District School Board. Lindsay came to teaching from a film, television, and commercial production background, and has had the opportunity to share her production skills with students in various ways in her library role. She works collaboratively with her peers breaking down systemic barriers and building equitable resources for staff and students while creating an inclusive learning commons. Lindsay has been a passionate Peel educator for 15 years, teaching for social justice, equity, and diversity.