Visit the Library Exchange official website to submit a story, ask a question or request to be a guest at https://www.libraryexchangepodcast.com

Looking for some new swag for your library, yourself or a favorite book loving friend? Visit: http://libraryexchange.etsy.com

Follow Allie Cornejo on Instagram or TikTok @alliethelibrarian.

Episode Description:

Allie Cornejo, 2026 School Librarian of the Year, describes serving a border community in Harlingen, Texas, and supporting a health-professions high school through creative, hands-on library programs.

She discusses 3D-printing, stop-motion and graphic design projects, energized book talks, and leading district AI literacy. Plus the recap of this episode describes how you can be eligible for a Demco giveaway for your library!

Visit the Library Exchange official website to submit a story, ask a question or request to be a guest at https://www.libraryexchangepodcast.com

Looking for some new swag for your library, yourself or a favorite book loving friend? Visit: http://libraryexchange.etsy.com

Follow Kathy Schmidt on Instagram @Kathyfs24

Episode Description:

Hosts Julie Saunders and Jan Wilson talk with Kathy Schmidt, a veteran elementary school librarian, about building community partnerships that support student literacy and family engagement.

They spotlight Brock Elementary’s programs: United Way Reading Buddies, the Lit on the Lawn family reading event, and the Loop It Up Savannah garden program and share practical ideas for creating volunteer-driven reading support, outreach events, and hands-on learning opportunities.

Visit the Library Exchange official website to submit a story, ask a question or request to be a guest at https://www.libraryexchangepodcast.com

Looking for some new swag for your library, yourself or a favorite book loving friend? Visit: http://libraryexchange.etsy.com

To contact Lori McGovern by email: mcgovern.lori@newton.k12.ga.us

Follow Lori McGovern on Instagram @Lori.McGovern.LMS

Episode Description:

In this episode, hosts Julie and Jan talk with Lori McGovern about why school libraries need intentional branding to communicate their instructional value. Lori shares practical steps: start with a logo, use consistent visuals in email signatures, newsletters and social media, and tweak captions and wording to highlight standards-aligned learning instead of just events.

Listeners will hear concrete ideas like templates, the “smother and cover” (Waffle House) approach to brand placement, and fun recognition strategies to promote collaboration and visibility. Contact details for Lori are provided for follow-up.