Sarah Ziolkowska: A Dedicated Librarian and Advocate for Education

Libraries have always played a pivotal role in education as gateways to knowledge, information, and intellectual development. At the heart of this vital institution stands Sarah Ziolkowska, a committed librarian and advocate for literacy and education. Throughout her career, Ziolkowska has impacted communities through her dedication to fostering learning, promoting literacy, and integrating modern approaches into traditional library services. Her journey reflects a passionate commitment to her field and a desire to create spaces where learning is both accessible and enjoyable.

Early Life and Education

Sarah Ziolkowska’s academic journey began with a love for books that developed in her youth, laying the foundation for her future role as a librarian. Growing up in Canada, she pursued higher education, focusing on learning and information management. She graduated with a Bachelor’s degree, later completing her Master’s in Library and Information Science from Dalhousie University in 2009. This advanced education prepared her for the diverse and evolving challenges of modern librarianship, equipping her with the skills necessary to manage not only books and resources but also the integration of digital tools in education.

Her academic background also reflects a deep understanding of human behavior and education. She studied psychology as part of her broader interest in learning. This blend of knowledge allowed her to create tailored, meaningful educational experiences that address students’ varied needs.

Career as a Librarian and Reading Specialist

Sarah Ziolkowska began her professional career working in academic settings. While at Dalhousie University, she was a teaching assistant, gaining valuable experience guiding students through research and educational challenges. Her early career also involved interning at the W.K. Kellogg Health Sciences Library, where she assisted in creating webcasts focused on information literacy—a skill critical for modern students in managing research and academic information.

Upon completing her education, Sarah transitioned to the librarian and reading specialist role at Park Century School in California. In this position, she managed the school’s library while developing programs to improve literacy among children. She took special care to ensure the library’s resources were engaging and accessible to all students, particularly those with learning disabilities. Her background in psychology was instrumental in helping her connect with students who struggled with reading, allowing her to offer personalized learning approaches that fostered confidence and enjoyment in learning.

At Park Century, Sarah’s duties went beyond traditional library management. She worked one-on-one with students requiring additional literacy support, and her efforts significantly improved reading outcomes for many children. Her role as a reading specialist, primarily focused on early childhood literacy, remains one of the most impactful aspects of her career.

Advocacy for Education and Literacy

Sarah Ziolkowska’s passion for education is evident in her continued advocacy for literacy within and beyond the classroom. While working in the United States, she emphasized integrating technology with traditional education. She helped modernize library services by implementing digital cataloging systems and creating reading programs utilizing print and digital media.

In 2024, Sarah relocated to Halifax, Canada, where she took on the role of Youth Librarian at the Halifax North Memorial Public Library. In this capacity, she further demonstrated her commitment to community-based education. One of her most notable projects in this position has been the FoodSmart Project, which integrates food education with library programming, drawing connections between literacy and broader life skills. This program has helped create a welcoming community space within the library, engaging families and children in ways that extend beyond reading and foster social interaction and community development.

Beyond her professional duties, Sarah actively participates in community outreach initiatives. She frequently organizes reading events for children in public libraries and has been involved in literacy campaigns for underserved populations. Her efforts to create mini-libraries in underprivileged areas have expanded access to education, providing resources to children who otherwise might not have had books.

Professional Growth and Ongoing Contributions

Sarah’s professional journey is marked by her constant pursuit of growth and innovation. She stays ahead of library science trends, constantly exploring ways to incorporate new technologies into her work. She has been a speaker at conferences and educational events, advocating for the role of libraries in fostering critical thinking, digital literacy, and research skills in the information age.

In her current role, Sarah is developing new literacy programs designed to help children navigate the digital world. Recognizing the challenges of the increasing presence of technology in education, she focuses on teaching students how to evaluate online sources critically and use the internet as a tool for learning rather than a distraction.

Sarah’s dedication to making libraries more inclusive is also noteworthy. She actively researches technologies and strategies to help children with learning disabilities access and enjoy books. Her goal is to ensure that all children, regardless of their learning challenges, have equal access to the resources that foster a love for reading and knowledge.

Impact on the Community

Sarah’s work as a librarian has profoundly impacted the communities she serves. She has helped improve literacy rates and created environments where learning is celebrated by offering children and families access to valuable educational resources. Her efforts at Park Century School and the Halifax North Memorial Public Library demonstrate her ability to make libraries more than places for books—they become vibrant centers for learning and community building.

Her influence extends to the professionals she collaborates with. Through workshops and educational programming, she has helped teachers and educators integrate library resources into their classrooms more effectively. This collaboration has strengthened libraries’ role as essential parts of the educational ecosystem.

Conclusion

Sarah Ziolkowska’s journey from a passionate book lover to a respected librarian and literacy advocate underscores libraries’ vital role in education. Her work spans from direct educational interventions with children to broader community outreach and library programming, all aimed at fostering a love for learning and improving literacy. Sarah continues to be a voice for innovation in her field, constantly exploring new ways to make libraries inclusive, engaging, and relevant to the digital age. Through her efforts, Sarah Ziolkowska has touched the lives of many students, educators, and families, leaving a lasting impact on education and community literacy.

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