Just checking in… Some reminders during these crazy times

Checking in

I actually had some new posts scheduled and ready to go out, but as things have changed dramatically over the past week, I realized that now might not be the time to write about finding inspiration from co-working spaces for school libraries, or how to organize your makerspace supplies.  Like many of you, I’m working from home for at least the next couple of weeks. I’m trying to wrap my head around what my role as a teacher librarian is like when I can’t interact in-person with my students and teachers.  When I don’t have access to the physical space of my library. I have ideas percolating around in my head about sharing online resources, supporting my teachers and maybe hosting some Zoom book clubs and maker meetups with students.  But right now, I’m trying not to plan too heavily.  Things are pretty crazy out there.

Technically, this week is my spring break.  Today, I was supposed to be in Rochester, NY, leading workshops about makerspaces and library spaces.  Instead, I’m at home, trying to self-isolate or at least exercising social distancing as much as possible while not losing my sanity.  A few weeks ago I craved being able to have a day to myself to just stay in bed and read a book all day or to catch up on household projects.  Now I’m kind of dreading the possibility of several weeks or more of staying home.

So I wanted to check in with you all.  This is not a post where I’m going to share all these amazing digital resources or tell you how to do your job now that it’s completely shifted.  I’m not writing about digital makerspace activities you can do (although I have ideas tossing around my head). I’m not here to make you feel like you should be doing all the things.

Be Kind to Yourself

Right now, I’m just reminding you to be kind to yourself and others.  Feel the feels. Get enough sleep. Eat healthy foods. Go for walks and get sunshine if you aren’t having to shelter in place.  Call up a loved one. Catch up on those creative projects that you never have time for. Read those books on your to-read list. Or don’t do any of that.  The main thing is: don’t feel pressured to be perfect. This is such a crazy time right now and we need to exercise kindness to ourselves. We will get to the other side of this – it might take longer than we want it to, but we will get there.  And hopefully, we’ll all learn some valuable lessons about ourselves and humanity along the way.

And by the way, if you’re looking for some smiles to distract you from the news, check out the hashtag #QuarantineCats.  You’re welcome 🙂