A library stocked with hundreds of books, varying in genres that educate and excite, draws the attention of many students at Hamilton Southeastern High School every day. The order and resources provided by the library, however, could not do without the endless help of the Library Media Specialist, Karin Foster. Having worked in the district for twenty years and the high school for ten, Foster strives to make the library and school a better environment through her influence.
“I try to make it a welcoming place,” Foster said. “I try to make sure that we have books that would be of interest for a variety of students.”
The appeal of the library stretches to all those who read books featuring science fiction, romance, horror, sports, nonfiction, and more contained on the countless shelves. Foster is constantly looking for ways to improve the library.
“I’m always trying to rearrange things, to make it comfortable seating,” Foster said. “[I do] things like book club and support students however they may need it.”
Not only does Foster’s force transform the library into a warm space, but the school as a whole. Foster takes care to make sure that every student has gathered all they can from the various resources the library has to offer, like the Book Club, which meets on an occasional basis to talk about preset books. Their next meeting is on Friday, November 10th, where the novel The Cruel Prince will be discussed. The gathering is open to anyone who is interested.
“I hope that HSE students leave HSE High School understanding how to access, analyze, and evaluate material for their purposes and bias.” Foster said. “[I try to] be an advocate for them.”