National School Librarian of the Year is Really Local

The national School Librarian of the year is Todd Burleson of Hubbard Woods School in Winnetka.  See the School Library Journal article and announcement for more details.

Having worked several years ago with Todd at Hubbard Woods on creative and inventive projects like “The Sky’s the Limit” about all aspects of flight, I am personally very excited that his work as an educator is being recognized nationally.  Todd has been instrumental in collaborating with District 36 and the Parent-Teacher Organization to create a “libratory” at Hubbard Woods.  Having this IDEA LAB makerspace recognized on a national level is a wonderful affirmation of his – and the District’s – focus on the whole child.   Todd’s work has been profiled in the local press, including The Chicago Tribune, and is described in more detail on the Hubbard Woods School site and his blog: http://toddburleson.wixsite.com/hwsidealab

I was very fortunate to have viewed the many changes to the Hubbard Woods library in person during the celebration of Hubbard Woods’ 100th year.  And earlier this summer, Todd generously acted as a guest lecturer for a graduate Library Science course; he certainly was an inspiration to the new school librarians from all around Illinois. By far the favorite speaker, Todd's pictures and descriptions of the renovated space were very energizing for all involved.

It is so stimulating and motivating to see the many new spaces available to students in our community – whether it is the new library in W250 on New Trier’s Winnetka campus, the inviting look which has been created at Northfield, changes to the local public libraries, like Winnetka’s new children’s area, or the very innovative library space at Hubbard Woods School!  Congratulations to Todd – can’t wait to see what comes next!