Windows and Mirrors: Getting Representation Right

This workshop will present how to build a library collection that reflects our diverse, global society, and provides a “mirror” that allows students to see themselves in literature as well as a “window” to peek into lives that are different. Aligned with current research and the revised New York State Standards that state students should read from a “wide range of global and diverse texts,” this workshop will provide resources for selecting high quality diverse materials, examples of award winning titles, and sample student activities. It will also discuss implementation of the "Reading Without Walls" initiative in one district.

Karen Fenner

Karen has been a Librarian for more than 25 years, the last 18 as a Library Media Specialist at Westhill High School in Syracuse, NY. She has been involved in initiatives that she is passionate about including teaching for social justice, supporting multiple literacies, and learning through guided inquiry. She loves to work with teachers and share good books with students. She has presented to the Central New York Reading Council, The New York State Council for the Social Studies, and at the National Council of Teachers of English. When not reading she is outdoors hiking or skiing.