One of my most important sabbatical goals was to re-connect with Carnegie Mellon University. When I first started at Marshall, we had graduate students in our library on a regular basis, working with our students and sharing their new inventions. It was a wonderful experience for both our students and those at CMU...we were even involved in the creation of a storytelling computer simulation that still exists on the Carnegie Library website!
At the end of the year, they held an open house for visitors to explore all the wonderful technology creations from their graduate students. It was such a thrill to be in this entertainment center, as the memorabilia surrounding these students is incredible! When I asked about all the artifacts, they told me that they are all there to provide inspiration for the students, and that each area has a particular theme; movies, music, etc. No wonder these students are so creative and successful!
The Children's Choice Awards happens every year through the Allegheny County Library Association and the Allegheny County Intermediate Unit. Students read up to 8 books and then get to spend the day with a national author, participate in a STEM activity and compete in a battle of the books. Each year, we travel with our 4th & 5th grade book clubs to the Soldier's & Sailor's Museum to participate in this fun event.
