Why I Became a Librarian: Sherri Jones

I’ve wanted to be in education as long as I can remember.  My mother, a retired Special Education teacher, was adamant that I was not going into the field. In her mind, I could do something more noble than she.  I had so many opportunities that she did not have, and she wanted me to have the world.

I went to college and majored in accounting and computer information systems.  I spend my first 10 years after graduation working for a major accounting firm before landing at the American Red Cross in their internal audit department. It was exciting and I was able to travel because of my job. Life happened alongside my career and ultimately, I became a stay at home mom with two children.  However, I wanted to do something that enabled me to be present for my children, but also to satisfy my desire to work with other children. I returned to school and received a Master of Education with a concentration in Montessori Education. I spend the next 18 years happily in the classroom helping to lay the educational foundation for children.

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Although I loved this work, I was increasingly focused on reading and bringing a love of reading to my students. I began to think about the next steps in my journey.  I decided to go back to school to obtain my MLIS. In the midst of applying to graduate school, DCPS put out a call to teachers that they were looking to sponsor teachers to become school librarians.  I could not believe my good fortune. I submitted my application and was accepted to the program.

I’ve been working as a school librarian for three years and wondered why it took me so long to get here. Each day brings new opportunities.  Whether I am working with students or helping them find just the right book. It might be collaborating with staff on finding the perfect text to bring the curriculum alive. Some days I support students in their research by showing them better ways to search for information or how to cite their sources appropriately. No two days are ever the same, whether I’m planning reading programs, scheduling author visits, supporting classroom instruction or having students just come to the library to check out books or engage in Makerspace activities.  No matter what the day brings I know that I am being of service to the communities that I serve. I’m truly grateful to have the best job in the world.

Sincerely,

Sherri R. Jones 
Houston Elementary/Simon Elementary
Ward 7/Ward 8