Lauren Blanford MLIS ’13 innovates school library during pandemic

March 24, 2021



Over the past year, the COVID-19 pandemic has forced Lauren Blanford MLIS ’13 to rethink almost every aspect of her job at Emerson Elementary School in Elmhurst. Among her colleagues, Lauren is known for her ingenuity and for finding ways to bring the world of books to children learning at home.



During the pandemic, Lauren continued to circulate books by offering curbside pickup to students learning remotely. She also expanded digital book options for students in collaboration with the Elmhurst Public Library.



Lauren encouraged students to make book recommendations and share what they're reading with their peers. "That can be really, really powerful," Lauren said.



Before she became a school librarian, Lauren's career had a few plot twists. She earned a college degree in psychology, worked in human resources, and did some consulting out of her home while she raised her two children.



Lauren realized she wanted to work in a library after volunteering at a school in La Grange District 105. As a volunteer, she saw her kids discover award-winning literature and new technology.



While earning her master's degree at Dominican, Lauren says she was inspired by Joanna Marek MLIS ’08, MAEA ’12. Joanna is the school librarian at Spring Avenue Elementary School in La Grange and the daughter of Kate Marek MALS ’80, Director of Dominican's School of Information Studies.



Learn more about Lauren's innovative efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic.