Get to know GSLIS: Georgeann Burch

Where did you grow up? 
Chicago—my dad used to push my stroller around Wrigley Field, so I had an early indoctrination into being a Cubs fan!

What year did you begin working for GSLIS?
In the fall of 2005.

Where did you work prior to GSLIS?
Westview Elementary School in Champaign as a school library media specialist; before that I worked at an instructional television specialist at WILL-TV, a PBS-affiliate in Urbana. And before THAT, I taught 5th-6th grade classrooms in Illinois and South Dakota, and worked as a library media specialist in Iowa.

What do you do at GSLIS? 
In my position as the K-12 Library Information Specialist (LIS) Certification Program Coordinator, I work with GSLIS students who are interested in the challenging, never-dull career of school librarian/library media specialist.  I advise them on course selection, program requirements (of which there are many!), field experiences, job hunting, etc.  I also act as their University supervisor during practicum and student teaching, and occasionally teach an LIS course.

What do you like best about your job?
Meeting and advising the amazing variety of graduate students at GSLIS who are interested in working in K-12 school libraries. Also, working with awesome school librarians from every grade level throughout the state of Illinois by visiting them and our students at their K-12 schools. 

What is your proudest accomplishment on the job?
When I get feedback from students and librarians who let me know I am contributing in a positive way to their professional development. Seeing our graduates start working in their own school library with so much enthusiasm and energy!

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
Reading books in the grade 5-12 range; gardening; watching romantic comedy movies.

Favorite food?
Pasta!

Favorite book?
I can only answer with "current favorite" which is the Bloody Jack series by L.A. Meyer.

What is your favorite musical or play?
My favorite musical is West Side Story—I love all the dance scenes!

Is there any particular advice you would like to share with students?
I always encourage our graduates to have a life outside of your job! Make sure your time is not consumed by media that tries to take the place of face-to-face time with live people. Personal and professional relationships are more important than the "to do" lists we all have.

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