DeSoto ISD Celebrates Library Awareness Month, Highlights Expanded Library Experiences and Literacy Engagement Opportunities
DeSoto ISD is proudly celebrating Library Awareness Month throughout April by raising awareness of the dynamic library experience across the district and highlighting the wide range of resources, services, and learning opportunities available to scholars and staff in school libraries.
As previously shared, the district’s focus this month is centered on elevating the visibility of library programs and strengthening understanding of the critical role libraries play in supporting literacy, research skills, digital learning, and student engagement. DeSoto ISD libraries serve as vibrant learning hubs where scholars explore, create, and access resources that enhance academic success and lifelong learning.
A full overview of library activities and updates can be found in the district’s library newsletter:
https://app.smore.com/n/0yrd6-deisd-libraries-newsletter
Celebrating Literacy Through Community Partnership
In alignment with this year’s celebration, all DeSoto ISD library assistants were invited to attend a special literature festival hosted by Bishop Dunne Catholic School. Tickets for library staff were provided free of charge, underscoring a shared commitment to literacy and professional enrichment.
The festival will feature Jason Reynolds, a #1 New York Times bestselling author and former National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature. His participation offers an inspiring opportunity for library professionals to engage with one of the most influential voices in contemporary youth literature and storytelling.
More information about the event is available here:
https://www.bdcs.org/litfest
Celebrating DeSoto ISD Library Professionals
DeSoto ISD also extends appreciation to its dedicated library staff members whose daily efforts ensure that students and teachers have access to high-quality instructional materials, welcoming library environments, and innovative learning tools.
Full-Time Library Staff by Campus:
- Cockrell Hill Elementary School – Jamesha Arnold, Library Aide/Paraprofessional
- The Meadows Elementary School – Dorothy Prudhomme, Library Aide/Paraprofessional
- Curtistene S. McCowan Middle School – Laurene Ragsdale, Library Aide/Paraprofessional
- DeSoto West Middle School – Patricia Shaw, Library Aide/Paraprofessional
- Woodridge Fine Arts and Gifted Academy – Mikah Graves, Library Aide/Paraprofessional
- DeSoto High School – Delia Byrd, Library Aide/Paraprofessional
- District Librarian – Dr. Diane Gille, Ph.D.
“Libraries remain essential spaces for discovery, imagination, and academic growth,” District Librarian Dr. Diane Gill shared. “We are grateful for our library professionals whose work continues to expand opportunities for every scholar across DeSoto ISD.”
DeSoto ISD encourages families, staff, and the community to celebrate Library Awareness Month by engaging with campus library programs and exploring the rich learning experiences available across the district.
For more information, visit www.desotoisd.org.