Congratulations to our school librarian Ms. Karen Snow who has been recognized for her amazing work with our students, families, and staff members in the FCPS Newsletter! 

Below is a write up of the ways that Ms. Snow has demonstrated her dedication and commitment towards striving to provide her students with an excellent education.

“Everyone is a reader… Some just haven’t found their favorite book yet." This anonymous quote is treasured by Karen Snow. It's painted on a wall in the Stratford Landing ES library, where Karen has served as librarian for the last eight years. Before arriving at Stratford Landing, she taught third grade at Gunston ES and fourth grade at Hunt Valley ES.

As school librarian, Karen orders and maintains the library, is the team chairperson for specialists, and runs the news show featuring teachers and students. In addition, she creates book trailers and self-help information for teachers, and manages the book fair along with curbside pickup for students to access library books. 

Karen points out that her job changes every day, which is one of the things she likes most about it. She says, “I love teaching and interacting with all the students in the school–seeing kids’ faces light up when [I] hand them a book they have been waiting for, helping teachers locate materials that enhance their lessons. There is never a dull moment in the library, and it is a welcoming place for all.” 

Virtual learning has made checking out books difficult, but with curbside delivery, it has been easier. Karen is grateful to her assistant, Laura Odegard, for her help. 

Colleague and parent liaison Kate Pennington says, “Karen has collaborated with other FCPS librarians and has brought curbside and contactless book pickup and return to our families. Our students can continue to choose books and enjoy reading, and the books are safely quarantined upon return before being checked out again. In addition, Ms. Snow teaches classes in all grade levels and focuses on teaching the children about digital resources while encouraging their love of reading.” 

Principal Kevin Morris adds, “Mrs. Snow has great reading relationships with her students and helps our students find their reading passion.”

For Karen, nothing is more rewarding than contributing to the education of others. That's her "why." She explains, “My job as a librarian is all about connections, and virtually I had to make that work by attending morning meetings, creating a news show with fun things for kids to do on their down time, and making my lessons engaging [so students want] to participate."

Outside of FCPS, Karen loves to work in her yard, boat with friends, and spend time with her family and dog outdoors. And, of course, she reads a lot! 

Karen, thank you for helping instill of a love of reading in our students!