Laura Lorek
Librarian
Kernersville,NC
Summary
Dynamic School Library Media Specialist with a proven track record at Cleveland Heights - University Heights School District.
Enhanced student engagement through innovative programs and comprehensive information literacy initiatives. Skilled in collection development and budget administration, fostering collaboration among faculty while promoting a love for reading and critical thinking among students.
Experienced education professional with strong background in library and information science, adept at fostering collaborative environment and promoting love of reading and learning. Skilled in managing library resources, implementing technology, and developing engaging educational programs. Known for adaptability and reliability, with focus on achieving impactful results in dynamic school setting.
Overview
2026
2026
years of professional experience
Work History
School Library Media Specialist
Cleveland Heights - University Heights School District
08.1997 - 05.2025
- Implemented a robust program within the library setting which fostered creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration among students.
- Provided professional development for faculty members on topics related to technology integration in the classroom, fostering increased teacher confidence in utilizing new tools.
- Established a welcoming environment within the library space that encouraged students to utilize its resources for both academic pursuits and personal interests.
- Compiled monthly usage statistics reports that highlighted key trends relating to patron behavior patterns which informed future decision-making processes regarding resource allocation or service improvements within the media center setting.
- Managed the acquisition, cataloging, processing, and weeding of library materials to ensure a relevant collection for all users.
- Enhanced student research skills by implementing a comprehensive information literacy program.
- Coordinated the integration of digital resources into the school''s learning management system, making materials easily accessible for students and teachers.
- Monitored budget allocations effectively to ensure adequate funding was available for necessary resources and programming within the school library media center.
- Organized annual events such as book fairs or author visits that promoted literacy throughout the school community while also generating additional funds for resource acquisitions.
- Increased collaboration between teachers and library staff through regular communication and joint lesson planning sessions.
- Promoted reading for pleasure among students, resulting in higher circulation statistics and greater enthusiasm for literature.
Reference Librarian
Willoughby Eastlake Public Library
J - Decembe
- Assisted library patrons with resolving computer problems.
- Managed reserve desk collection of reference materials.
- Trained new staff members on reference procedures and techniques, ensuring consistent high-quality service delivery across the team.
- Established partnerships with other libraries for interlibrary loan agreements allowing patrons greater access to external resources not held within our collection.
- Completed electronic research using Westlaw, LexisNexis, and Bloomberg.
- Coordinated special events such as author visits and book signings, fostering a sense of community engagement within the library.
- Monitored trends in reference librarianship by attending conferences and workshops as part of ongoing professional development efforts.
- Evaluated current collections regularly to identify outdated or underused materials for removal or replacement with more relevant content.
- Provided exceptional customer service through responsive communication via email, phone calls, chat sessions, or face-to-face interactions with patrons.
- Assisted patrons in navigating databases, search engines, and catalogs for efficient retrieval of information needed for their projects or assignments.
- Created engaging displays showcasing new arrivals or highlighting specific subjects in order to draw attention from visitors and encourage exploration of library resources.
- Designed age-appropriate activities that fostered curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking skills in young patrons.
- Promoted early childhood literacy through the implementation of innovative programming such as Baby Storytime sessions and Play and Learn workshops.
- Organized and hosted successful author visits, providing opportunities for children to meet their favorite writers and illustrators.
- Created eye-catching displays showcasing featured books or themed collections that attracted patrons'' attention.
- Partnered with other librarians to develop a summer reading program that motivated participants to read more books during school break periods.
- Enhanced children''s literacy skills by developing and implementing engaging reading programs.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Early Childhood Education
University of North Carolina At Greensboro
Greensboro, NCMaster of Science - Library And Information Science
Kent State University
Kent, OH12-1997
Skills
- Digital citizenship
- Student engagement
- Reference services
- Collection development
- Budget administration
- Information literacy
- Library management
- Curriculum integration
- Cataloging and shelving
- Staff supervision
- Children's programs
- Effective project completion
Timeline
School Library Media Specialist
Cleveland Heights - University Heights School District
08.1997 - 05.2025
Reference Librarian
Willoughby Eastlake Public Library
J - Decembe
Bachelor of Science - Early Childhood Education
University of North Carolina At Greensboro
Master of Science - Library And Information Science
Kent State University
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