21st Century School Library

State Library Recognizes Lowell Elementary as a 21st Century School Library

Lowell Elementary led by teacher-librarian Erin Radway and supported by administrator Diane Kennedy was awarded the state-level 21st Century School Library Award. Each year the SD State Library, a division of the SD Department of Education, recognizes school libraries as Effective, Enhanced, or Exemplary, based on performance in three areas: The Place (both physical and online learning environments), The Program, and The Professional.

Applicants conduct a self-assessment and provide artifacts and evidence of their ability to meet South Dakota's guidelines for school libraries. Award status is valid for a three-year period.

Here are some comments from the Review Team:

  • “Library "shelfie"s - great idea. Amazing things happening for this library's program in particular.”
  • “Lots of great examples of each category / breakout boxes sound fun!”
  • “What a fantastic library! I liked seeing your ideas for the lockbox/breakout activities and the genre work, both of which I do in the high school.”
  • “I really like the idea of getting your 3rd graders to believe in themselves as chapter book readers!”
  • “Loved the community challenge and breakout experiences highlighted.  Chapter book confidence--kudos.  Certified librarian taking classes and serving on committees.”
  • “Great activities done with the students .... love how you meet with grade level teams consistently ... the library looks very inviting to students.” 
  • “Padlet was the perfect technology to demonstrate how exemplary her library is.  She provided more than 2 pieces of evidence for each area.”
  • “Clear evidence provided to support self-assessment.”

You can find more information on the State Library’s 21st Century School Library Award webpage

Other Libraries Recognized as 21st Century School Libraries

Exemplary Award

-Aberdeen Central High School Library, Aberdeen: Librarian Mikayla Arechigo, Administrator Dr. Jason Uttermark

-Adventure Elementary School Library, Harrisburg: Librarian Elizabeth Wells, Administrator Angela Nelson

-Creekside Elementary School Library, Spearfish: Librarian Sheleen Bauer, Administrator Dan Olson

-George McGovern Middle School Library, Sioux Falls: Librarian Sherri Wolles, Administrator Timothy Koehler

-Georgia Morse Middle School Library, Pierre: Librarian Renae Lehman, Administrators Dr. Kyley Cumbow and Brandon Lowery

-Harrisburg High School Library, Harrisburg: Librarian Eve Langerock, Administrator Ryan Rollinger

-Jefferson High School Library, Sioux Falls: Librarian Emelia Gulck, Administrator Daniel Conrad

-John Harris Elementary School Library, Sioux Falls: Librarian Stefanie Hage, Administrator Kersten Dobberpuhl

-Lowell Elementary School Library, Sioux Falls: Librarian Erin Radway, Administrator Diane Kennedy

-Sonia Sotomayor Elementary School Library, Sioux Falls: Librarian Jenni Egstad, Administrators Tracy Vik, Jana Greenfield

-South Park Elementary School Library, Belle Fourche: Librarian Karen Schlekeway, Administrator Dr. Julie Hatling

Effective Award

 -Dakota Valley High School Library, Dakota Valley: Librarian Erin Nilges, Administrator Nichole Herzog

-Dakota Valley Upper Elementary/Middle School Library, Dakota Valley: Librarian Erin Nilges, Administrators Nichole Herzog, Erik Sommervold, Tonia Warzecha