Sarah Olson, school librarian at Lake George Jr.-Sr. High School, has been named the 2024 WSWHE BOCES School Library System School Librarian of the Year. This prestigious recognition celebrates Olson’s exceptional leadership, collaborative spirit, and unwavering commitment to create a love of reading and learning within her school community.
“It feels humbling to be seen as a leader in our region of librarians because we have many amazing ones,” Olson said.
Olson’s passion for books and reading blossomed from a young age. Memories of the book mobile visiting her small town in Treadwell, New York, and cherished childhood reads like “The Secret Garden” and “Little Women” instilled a lifelong love for literature.
In her current role, Olson strives to make the library a dynamic center for students across all grade levels and subject areas. “My role in the library allows me to work with every grade level and every content area,” she explained. “Everything is collaborative, and I build relationships with teachers and students through a lot of different areas and activities.” This collaborative approach gives a sense of community within the library, transforming it into a space that goes beyond traditional book borrowing.
From engaging breakout games and maker spaces to puzzles and comfortable reading nooks, Olson puts together a space that caters to diverse learning styles and interests. “It’s not just a traditional library,” she emphasized. “Students come to the library to learn, and it serves as a central community space for learning and collaboration.”
Olson’s dedication extends far beyond the walls of the library. She actively participates in regional professional development initiatives, sharing her expertise and supporting fellow librarians. Her leadership extends to the WSWHE BOCES School Library System Council, where she will be stepping into the role of Chairperson in the upcoming school year.
Beyond her professional contributions, Olson’s generosity extends internationally. Her efforts in raising funds and providing training to educators in Liberia demonstrate her commitment to educational opportunities beyond Lake George and local communities.
As Kerrie Burch, the School Library System Coordinator, states in her nomination letter, “Sarah Olson’s leadership in her district, the region, and beyond is strong, yet quiet. Her generosity extends well beyond the library world as well.”
Congratulations Sarah Olson on your well-deserved recognition as WSWHE BOCES School Library System School Librarian of the Year!