Librarian Talk – Melissa Ashby – Wanaka Primary School

If you were a superhero, who would you be?

It would definitely be Ada in “The war that saved my life” by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley for her fortitude and courage against ongoing adversity.

Tell us about your library! What makes it unique?

We have a fantastic layout. It’s open but cosy and I try to have a collection that is both contemporary but also covers a broad range of non-fiction. I buy multiple copies of popular fiction, so children are not waiting too long to read their favourite titles! We are also fortunate to have a wonderful outdoor space for our readers in the warmer weather.

What is a challenge that you faced in your library recently?

Setting up our Web App and building it to make full use of its capability. It becomes a one stop shop for our students to not only search our catalogue, but also providing a platform for students to research extensively and safely!

How did Accessit Library help you solve this challenge?

The customer service has been fantastic. The team are clear, concise and so obliging. I honestly can’t rate them highly enough.

How has your attitude changed towards the challenge you solved with Accessit Library, now that you’ve worked through it?

Working through the setup of a satisfactory layout for our Web App and installing it in all the classrooms (on children’s computers) means that now the entire school has it and uses it to its full potential and the children can also log into it at home!

What do you like the most about Accessit Library?

It works easily within our school community. It’s a system that you can build on as time allows and the tech team/software team have thought of everything! There is always a new way to solve a problem.

What tips could you give to librarians to help improve their remote learning experience?

To be honest I have learnt more by ringing the help line. I learn better that way but for people that can navigate their way around computers easily especially with online learning, then the Accessit Library customer portal has everything.