We are all in this together: Finding growth and gratitude in the midst of COVID-19
Dear JLG extended family,
When I became the new General Manager for Junior Library Guild in October, the world looked dramatically different than it does today. Reflecting on my first few months, I wanted to reach out to you directly to express my gratitude and share a few thoughts.
First, thank you. It is an honor to stand shoulder to shoulder with our incredible library partners across all 50 states as you respond to the impact of the novel coronavirus and rapidly move your on-campus instruction to remote teaching. The dedication, resilience and resourcefulness of your faculty, staff and students during these unexpected and dramatic changes has been remarkable. I’ve always held a deep appreciation for the important and challenging work of school librarians. This current crisis has only deepened that appreciation.
Our commitment to helping you deliver high-quality, affordable programs has never been stronger. Since I became General Manager, our new senior leadership team’s focus has been guided by one simple principle – be better today than we were yesterday. To that end, we have worked quickly to improve every aspect of our monthly service. This includes making upgrades to our communications, website, and adding new programs. And now, with the disruption of your building library, amazing JLG employees are working to support our members with online resources and enrichment opportunities to ensure your students can continue to learn and be inspired virtually.
In closing, I want to recognize the extraordinary and tireless service of so many of your former students who are now on the frontlines of this crisis, especially the tens of thousands of nurses and teachers who found inspiration for their calling in the books you have provided. They represent the best of our communities and our country. We at Junior Library Guild are inspired by them and are honored to play a role in your and their success.
Best,
Sean Lockwood
JLG General Manager
P.S. To help you prepare for fall, we are currently offering free access to our JLG Digital eBook/audiobook platform all summer long when you subscribe for the fall. Our hope is that access to this online reading platform helps you and your readers "skip the summer slide."
