Librarians as Eco-Literacy Leaders: Creating a Culture of Environmental Learning in the Library
by Tracey Donaldson
Tracey’s paper is an excellent example of the responsive nature of work in the school library learning commons as it evolves to meet the needs of learners for the future. With student success and growth at the centre of her vision, Tracey has designed for best curriculum, spaces and resources to create an Eco-Literacy culture in her school. She laid the foundations and frameworks needed to sustain her goals over the years. Tracey believes that, “The library is a space for critical thinking and experiential learning. Students learn to have a voice in their own learning and understand that they are active learners and responsible citizens in our school community.” This paper by TDSB teacher-librarian Tracey Donaldson was first published as an article in CSL Journal.
Tracey, I'm glad that CSL decided to reprint your CSL Journal article as a TMC8 paper. Your work needs to be promoted and shared in many quarters. The images almost speak for themselves in terms of the impact these initiatives have on all learners, young and old, in the SLLC space at your school. You mentioned climate change and eco-anxiety in your paper; when I saw the 2025 Blue Spruce nominated book, "Harold the Iceberg Melts Down", I thought of you immediately! I continue to be impressed with the creative way you deal with funding deficits through grants, contests, and corporate donations. Having your vermi-composters/foodcyclers are more effective than simply having litterless lunches where students bring home their scraps (to probably pitch in the garbage) at the end of the school day. You mentioned SDGs, so reading Jen Aston's article is a definite must for you; it ties in so nicely with what you already do. My question for you is: if you ever leave your school (or when you retire), how much work will need to happen for all these wonderful eco-efforts to continue? How much of it is dependent on you and your wonderful presence? I really hope, like a plant, it continues to grow and thrive, even without your sunny personality nourishing it!
ReplyDeleteDiana