Media Specialist hopes to create a more inviting library atmosphere

Shelves after shelves of books lining the walls, sun shining through large windows, students meticulously studying their school work. This is the atmosphere that fills the Milford High School Library.

But the atmosphere is changing and evolving too.

Kelsey Breen, the Milford High School librarian, is working to improve the library this year and change it to create a better resource for students. “I’m excited to be given the chance to be able to implement [the changes],” she said.

Last year no new books were brought into the media center, and this year Breen wants to bring in some new literature. She has been ordering new books, so that there are more choices for students searching for their next read. Breen is also trying to order more popular titles and more teen novels. “Everyone likes young adult novels,” she stated,

As someone who worked at the Milford Public Library in the teen section, she knows that anyone can find a book or a genre that he or she enjoys, and she is getting more books so that students can find the ones they’ll love.

In addition, Breen has been rearranging the setup of the library itself to allow for more group sitting spaces. Izzie Kenhard, senior and vice president of the Book Club, believes that the new spaces will help build connections and encourage productive group activity. “I’m excited,” Kenhard said. “It gives a sort of college study group atmosphere.”

Moreover, the library will be opened everyday this year from 7am-3pm, giving students a good amount of time during the day to visit the media center. They can also stop by after school to find a new book or do a little research for school. “The library is an amazing resource,” Kenhard said, “I’d like to see more students taking advantage of it.”

Breen is hoping to create a space in Milford where students can study and get work done, but can also work in a group setting. In the past years, the library has been virtually empty, but Breen said that she hopes these changes have a positive impact on the way that students work together. She hopes to create a vibrant and productive atmosphere.

There are also clubs taking the opportunity of the library as a place to meet up. One such club is the Book Club, which meets every other Thursday in the library. “it’s fun to be surrounded by books,” Kenhard stated. And these clubs are bringing more people and more energy to the media center.

“This is a work in progress,” Breen exclaimed. Getting new books, changing the setup, and encouraging students to use this resource will take a couple of years to be fully implemented. Breen is working every day to make the library a helpful and fun place for students, and she will continue to do so. But one thing is for sure, the library is looking good so far.