Each month, we introduce you to a different member of our staff with a brief Q&A. For October, we meet School Library System Director Kerrie Burch.
What is your role here at Questar III and where do you work?
I am the School Library System Director, but I also serve as the Arts in Education Director and Odyssey of the Mind Regional Director. My office is based at the Central Office, but I visit our member libraries and librarians in the area as well.
How do you see your role as supporting the BOCES, its school districts and students?
The School Library System supports BOCES, its schools, and students by empowering, advocating, and supporting school librarians and library programs which are crucial to teaching and supporting learning. We support professional development, automation services, inter-library loan, database purchases, and other services to support learning in the schools.
What is your background like – previous jobs, education, etc.?
Before arriving at Questar III I was a school librarian for ten years. Most recently, I was the K-12 Librarian at Fort Edward UFSD in Fort Edward, NY. My undergraduate degree is from SUNY Potsdam where I earned a BA in English and Secondary Education. I earned my Masters of Science in Information Science from the University at Albany, and my most recent degree, Certificate in Advanced Studies – School Building Leader from SUNY Plattsburgh. I am currently pursuing the School District Leader certification through SUNY Plattsburgh and expect to be finished in May 2018.
What do you like most about your job?
I really enjoy meeting the other librarians in the area and seeing the beautiful spaces they have for libraries. So far, I have met with several librarians and I am amazed by their enthusiasm and love for the profession. I am very excited to continue to visit the libraries and work with this talented group of individuals.
What made you decide to pursue a career in school libraries?
While I did not grow up aspiring to be a librarian, I have wanted to be a teacher since first grade. I fell into a long-term substitute position in the library upon returning to teaching ten years ago. Once in the position for a couple weeks, I knew I had found my true passion in teaching – being a school librarian. I still love the library profession, but now that I am the School Library System Director, I love that I can help others become great librarians.
Tell us a bit about your life outside of Questar III.
When not working, I enjoy reading, especially historical fiction, and spending time with my family. My family and I enjoy traveling and seeing new sights. We have traveled to Alaska, Canada, and many states within the Continental United States.
