Here at Palmer High School, we have multiple members of staff you may find in the library, including Brenda Phillis, main library assistant, Erin Ullery, textbook library assistant, Bob Vankirk, LTE teacher librarian, Melanie Ridley, LTE teacher librarian, and Shirley Vai, technology support technician.
Librarians have a reputation for frowning and shushing people. Why do people think that?
“I’ve been working here for about 14 years, and starting as early as Link Crew day, the rules are more emphasized than the liberties that come when you follow them.” -Bob Vankirk
A couple years ago there was a ‘Why are the librarians so mean?’ poster hung in the library in big red letters, it wouldn’t be surprising if a freshmen saw it and took it seriously, or the upperclassmen started spreading this rumor just for fun to scare the new kids.
Rumors create toxic environments, when coming into high school you’ll often hear rumors of being bullied; like being pushed in lockers, that never actually happens. It’s important we learn to research all the facts because misunderstandings can be spread so easily.
“Anybody can start a rumor; people have fun creating new rumors and poking fun at the new students,” Ms. Ullery says.
We want all students, especially freshmen, to learn what we have to offer and to utilize those things. We help with book suggestions, laptop and charger problems, textbooks, printing, and resources in and outside the school.
Finally, is there any advice for the freshmen you have? Please use the library and all our resources and knowledge. The only time students aren’t welcome is without a pass, or when you’re a disruption to the students who are reading.
“Read a book they don’t bite.” -Erin Ullery
