Image/ Hailey Brooks

Although Audrey Lamar has experience as an elementary school librarian, her transition to working as the Library Media Specialist and Digital Learning Coach has allowed her to interact with older students and build connections with the student body.

“I actually came to the high school for the older kids. It can be tough managing the little ones… It’s nice to be with kids you can treat like adults,” Lamar said.

Lamar decided she wanted to be a librarian by the influence of her love of books, school and her grandmother, who was once a librarian as well. Before working at WHS, Lamar was the school librarian at Seekonk Elementary School. In her new role, she takes part in introducing new technology for the students, including giving out loaner chromebooks, going through the library’s inventory and trying to get rid of unused books to make space for new ones. 

“They want me as a librarian, obviously, to get kids in here and checking out books and reading, but they also want me to go into the classroom and to teach the teachers how to bring in new digital tools,” Lamar said. 

Lamar plans on recycling and finding new uses for the many outdated books, as some are even from the early 1900’s, and has been clearing the shelves to find space for newer books. In doing so, she hopes to make the library a more engaging space for modern students.

“I want to do a good job here, I want to increase circulation, I want kids to want to come in,” Lamar said. 

Lamar wishes to encourage students to feel like they can use the library space for learning and reading, and wants to create a space where students feel welcomed and comfortable.

“I feel like not everybody comes down or they feel they can’t come down,” she said.

Lamar’s mentor is Tom Reeve, Director of Digital Learning and Technology at WHS. Reeve offers Lamar professional support as she transitions into her role as Digital Learning Coach.

“She seems excited to help the media center grow into a welcoming, productive space for students and teachers, and she is looking forward to helping teachers integrate technology, information literacy, and research skills into their classes,” Reeve said. 

As Ms. Lamar continues her journey at Walpole High, she hopes to make big changes in the library and fully integrate technology into the school. Lamar is excited to put in the work to help her new students. 

“I’m just so thrilled on how kind and just what a great bunch of students go here”.