The Library’s Third Floor North houses two inspiring–and downright practical!–centers full of useful materials. The Teacher Resource Center has benefitted from librarians with rich knowledge and interest in the work and materials for K-12 teachers. As a result, it is blossoming, welcoming education majors, student teachers, and community teachers through its doors every day.
We caught up with librarian Taylor Smith to talk about what’s happening in the TRC these days.
So, Taylor, tell us about the experiences that brought you to the TRC.
I started working at the library when I was an undergraduate student at Fresno State and quickly discovered how much I love libraries and everything they stand for. My job in the Teacher Resource Center (TRC) is a perfect blend of all my passions. I have a background in education and previously taught at a preschool, I studied literature and creative writing for my undergraduate degree, and I have worked at the Fresno State Library for over 10 years.
In one sentence, what are you excited about in your work?
Hands down, my favorite thing is helping patrons and seeing them get excited about a resource or service they didn’t know about.
With no restrictions on content or form, describe the purpose of the TRC.
The TRC is a collection of teaching materials (books, curriculum sources, activities, toys) used in pre-Kindergarten through grade 12 classrooms. It provides assistance with the identification and location of various teaching materials related to specific topics and delivers services associated with these materials. The collections are intended primarily for Fresno State faculty and Fresno State teacher education students who are creating lesson/unit plans for their coursework, practicums, or student teaching. Other interested individuals, including local schoolteachers and residents, may use the collection too.
Can you share a way that your center has impacted a student or faculty member?
One of the ways we get to see our impact is through our patrons who frequent the center. We have many patrons who are in the center every day using the space and the collection in order to enhance their lesson plans and everyday teaching practices. My favorite impact story, however, comes from a local elementary school student. This student had previously expressed to their teacher that they had no interest in going to college. During a visit to our center, this student enthusiastically stated that they wanted to attend Fresno State. Nothing makes me prouder than to be a part of something that inspires our local youth.
“Finally, I love that we offer free library cards to local school teachers. This is a service that allows us to make a positive impact on our community and support our teachers in the central valley.”
Taylor Smith, Teacher Resource Center
What is one thing you’d love to see in the center if you had a little extra boost? What might it take to make that happen?
Our biggest hurdle right now is a lack of funds for staffing. I would love to see the center reach its full potential and be able to deliver on some of the suggestions we receive. Many of our patrons have asked if we are planning to host more events or author readings and I would love to be able to satisfy those requests.
Tell us about three things you love the most in or about the Teacher Resource Center.
The TRC is a unique collection in that it really does have something for everyone. Of course, all of our materials are geared toward educators, but they are also just fun for everyone. We have giant connect 4, giant Jenga, games, Legos, puppets, STEM kits, and more. Another pride point is our diverse book collections. One of our highest priorities is acquiring multicultural materials. We also have an extensive Spanish and multilingual book collection that we will continue to expand. Finally, I love that we offer free library cards to local school teachers. This is a service that allows us to make a positive impact on our community and support our teachers in the central valley.
Would you like to help the impact of the Teacher Resource Center to grow? We have set up a new Fresno State Foundation fund dedicated to supporting the Center. Your support will go a long way toward helping Valley educators thrive. Simply designate “Fresno State Library” with your gift and add “TRC” in the additional comment box.
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