At Powell High School [PHS], the library is home to many. This year the library has plenty of fun new games, books, and activities that the students can engage in while passing time. 

In her first year at PHS, the new IMC clerk, Mrs. Skoric hopes to combat the ever-dwindling occurrence of kids simply not reading as much as they used to. 

“My first goal was to create a bright, happy, welcoming space for all young adults to enjoy,” PHS Librarian Mrs. Karen Skoric said. “I wanted people to see the library as a space to hang out with friends, or by yourself.” 

She believes that students need to read more and has an experience that might resonate with some students.

“My mother would cozy up in bed with me and read to me,” Mrs. Skoric said. “Reading was a way to another land, another experience, a place beyond the confines of my bedroom with pink, shag carpet.”

With her new and noticeable efforts, the effects have certainly been felt by students already. 

“I think the little changes to the library are good,” sophomore Emma Carsey said. “I’ve noticed that there are games set out in the library, and there are puzzles outside the door which I’ve seen many people play, and I think could be a nice break from the lengthy school work.”

With improvements in the making, many students like Carsey have suggestions for the library too. 

“I quite like it as it is,” junior Paige McConnell said. “But if they had, like, coloring or art challenges, it would be cool.”

To help students get more engaged Mrs. Skoric has displayed fun puzzles or mystery books in front of the library and on the tables inside. 

“New authors, new genres, new book covers—and a few old ones will hopefully encourage a reader to take something home,” Mrs. Skoric said. “And I’ve got a few more ideas to toss around; How does a ‘brown bag book club’ sound?”

Hopefully, with the support of students, there will be an upsurge in reading.