Anna Lull, a teacher librarian at the public Community Montessori Elementary School in the Boulder Valley School District, has lived in the east Boulder area for more than 20 years.

Lull has worked as a teacher librarian in the district for eight years and previously worked for Boulder Public Library as a children’s librarian and programs and events coordinator.

The Daily Camera asked Lull about her work and child literacy.

What does your job involve?

My job title is teacher librarian. In BVSD, we are licensed teachers who facilitate the library, teach research and tech skills, and support literacy across the school.

Why did you want to become a librarian?

I love teaching and reading books, but I really enjoy the dynamic nature of the job. In addition to selecting books, students get to play games, explore challenges and learn how to be kind social people, so we really get to know each other.

What are your favorite and least favorite parts about your job?

The best part of this job is telling a student, “I have a book you might like,” and watching them become excited about reading. I love curating a collection that keeps kids engaged. My least favorite part of the job is dealing with a limited budget and concerns over funding every year.

How has this job changed over the years? Have you noticed any difference in your students or the type of material they read?

The need to address student learning styles and behaviors has grown in past years. I continue to adapt my lessons to support classroom teachers and special education staff in these areas. The types of books kids want and topics they like change almost every year. The kids are always introducing me to new things! For example, the axolotl was popular, so we ordered books about those interesting creatures.

What is something you wish more people knew about child literacy and the work of school librarians?

I wish more people knew that any strong school has a strong library culture. While more student time shifts to screens, the library is essential in maintaining the core principles of early literacy instruction. Your school library launches the curiosity combined with the skills students need to be the best version of themselves.