Jennifer LaGarde, Zombie Fighter
Friday, October 9, 2015 at 07:01AM 
Last Saturday, Jennifer LaGarde gave the keynote at our ITEM state library/tech conference.
It may have been the best keynote I've ever heard aimed at library media specialists. Period. And I have heard some good ones.
In BRAINZ! How To Survive The Zombie Librarian Apocalypse! Jennifer shared 7 tips (and a lot more wisdom) about how to fight for improved library programs that are relevant and effective in today's schools. Like the speakers who best motivate, the talk was a strategic blend of smarts and heart and a reminder that great school library programs are too important to too many kids for them to be in jeopardy - and that it takes good school librarians to create such programs.
And just maybe, I liked the talk so much since I heard echoes of my excoriations to the field over the past 30 years- but delivered more effectively.
Anyway, a chance to hear MY hero in action. Keep up this important work, LibraryGirl!
Reader Comments (4)
As always, Doug, nice post, even if I did have to google excoriations! I have heard you share a similar message (even pretty eloquently!) It often frustrates me that we are still fighting this battle against the zombies. I look forward to the day when Minnesota schools, administrators and families recognize the value in a strong library program led by an enthusiastic school librarian (or media specialist or whatever the title). Good to see you in St Cloud!
Hi Laurie,
I wonder if other fields have their zombie practitioners as well? Doctors, lawyers, farmers, business people, whoever, that don't keep current with their fields? Too bad the feeling about librarians is that we don't need them at all rather than that we need better ones. I sense that is changing in many schools.
Good to see you as well. Let's find time to visit next conference!
Doug​
I have spent my entire career emulating you, Doug. I'm delighted that you see your wisdom reflected in my work. I should probably just begin every slide with "As Doug Johnson would say...." Thank you, my friend. It was a pleasure to finally meet you and an honor to learn and share with your colleagues. This post is like icing on an already perfect cake.
Hi Jennifer,
Well, I am humbled. I am so happy we both are working toward the same basic goals of improving the field and improving education for kids. It was a real pleasure to meet you as well.
Have a good one!
Doug