Beyond the Bookshelves: How the Preschool and Lower School Library Inspires Young Readers

By Michael Tauscher

A school library is more than just a place to check out books—it’s a vibrant hub of learning, imagination, and discovery. At University School of Milwaukee, the Stratton Preschool and Lower School Library plays a crucial role in fostering a love of reading, supporting student curiosity, and connecting the entire school community. At the heart of this dynamic space is Ms. Dolores Brown, a dedicated librarian whose passion for books and children’s literature shapes the experiences of young readers every day.

In this feature, we explore Ms. Brown’s journey to becoming a librarian, how she curates an inclusive and diverse collection, the evolving role of school libraries in the digital age, and the ways she inspires students to develop a lifelong love of reading.

A Journey into Librarianship

For Brown, becoming a librarian was both a happy accident and a natural calling. Before entering the world of libraries, she wore many hats—working as a doula, a photographer, and an administrative assistant at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM). However, when her daughter was young, she wanted to enroll her in the daycare at UWM but found the cost prohibitive. A solution presented itself: financial assistance was available if she was a full-time student.

Faced with the question of what to study, Brown reflected on her lifelong love of books. Though her undergraduate degree was in musical theater, she realized that reading had been a constant passion—especially children’s literature. "I've always read children's books, since I was a child until now. I've never gotten into adult reading," she shared. That realization led her to pursue a master’s degree in library and information sciences, initially planning for a career as a public librarian.

Having worked as a teen librarian at the Milwaukee Public Library, Brown had a professor who suggested she explore school librarianship. "I didn't know if I wanted to work at a school," she admitted. But after just two weeks of observation, she felt at home. UWM offered her a job, and she quickly embraced the role, obtaining her teaching license to meet public school requirements. After four years in that position, USM saw her talent and brought her into its community. "And," she said, "the rest is history."

A Celebration of Books and Learning

April is National School Library Month, and for Brown, it’s a time to highlight the essential role the library plays in the USM community. "The library is the hub of the school," she explains. "It’s the one place where administrators, teachers, families, and children all benefit from what’s coming in and going out."

To celebrate, she has organized fun activities that make the library an interactive and engaging space. Contests, games, and interactive displays encourage students to see the library as more than just a place to check out books—it’s a place to explore, imagine, and grow. One of her favorite activities is giving students the opportunity to share why they love the library. "It’s not self-serving," she said with a laugh, "but it does feel nice!" These little "love notes" help her understand what resonates with students. If many children express excitement about books on trucks, for example, she knows to stock up on more truck-related titles.

She has also prioritized outreach, ensuring families and teachers understand the value of the library. Whether through newsletters or personal conversations, she seeks to connect each group to the library’s resources. "Even if you're an administrator, you might not realize how a bunch of children's books could help you in your role," she pointed out. "I make sure the library has something for everyone."

The Evolving Role of Libraries

Libraries have changed significantly since the days of card catalogs and microfilm, but according to Brown, many of the fundamental principles remain the same. "We don't have the fun of flipping through the card catalog anymore," she said, "but Dewey Decimal is still here—just modified to be more inclusive of today’s world."

One of the biggest transformations is how students find books. In the past, fiction was simply "fiction," but now it’s often organized by genre, making it easier for young readers to find books that interest them. Students also have digital access to the library catalog, allowing them to search for books from their classrooms before physically retrieving them.

Despite the rise of digital reading, Brown has noticed that USM students overwhelmingly prefer physical books. "We have a catalog called Sora, where kids can check out digital books, and while they use it as a supplement, they always ask, ‘Is the real book in yet?’" That preference aligns with research showing that children absorb and retain information better when reading physical books rather than digital ones.

A Community of Readers

With a bustling library and students eager to check out books, Brown estimates that USM’s Preschool and Lower School library circulates thousands of books each year. "I don’t know the exact number off the top of my head," she said, "but it feels like 8 million a day when I’m shelving them!"

Some students race through books at an astonishing pace. One girl, for example, has been methodically working her way through a series Brown recommended, ensuring her friends check out each book in sequence. "Her mom thinks there's something wrong with her because all she does is read!" Brown joked. "But I think it’s wonderful."

The high turnover reflects USM’s culture of reading. "We are a community of readers," Brown emphasized. "Kids are excited to discover new books, and their enthusiasm is contagious."

Curating a Library That Reflects Every Student

In an era of book challenges and bans, librarians play a crucial role in ensuring access to diverse and inclusive literature. Brown follows the best practices set forth by professional library organizations, adhering to collection development policies designed to provide a well-rounded, appropriate selection of books.

She carefully curates the library’s collection to represent a range of perspectives and experiences, ensuring that all students see themselves reflected in stories. "It's important that every child who walks into the library can find a book where they see themselves, but also books that introduce them to lives and experiences different from their own," she said.

At the same time, she follows a structured approach to book selection. "We rely on reputable review sources, award lists, and educational standards," she explained. "Every book has a place, and every child deserves to find stories that resonate with them."

The Magic of the Right Book

For Brown, one of the most rewarding aspects of her job is seeing the impact of books on young readers. She recalled working with a student who struggled to find a book he enjoyed. He would check out books but return them unread, never quite finding the right fit.

Determined to help, Brown spent time getting to know his interests and personality. After some trial and error, she handed him a book she thought might be just right. A week later, he returned to the library, beaming. "Miss Brown," he said, "I actually read the whole thing!"

It was a small moment, but for Brown, it encapsulated why she does what she does. "That’s the magic of libraries," she said. "There’s a book out there for every child—you just have to help them find it."

The Future of the USM Library

As she envisions the future of the Preschool and Lower School library, Brown has big aspirations. She wants to continue expanding access to high-interest books, enhance digital literacy skills, and strengthen the library’s role as a community hub. "I want the library to be a space where kids feel ownership, where they know they can come for not just books, but also support, creativity, and exploration," she said.

With her passion, dedication, and deep belief in the power of books, it’s clear that the USM library will continue to be a place where young readers grow, discover, and thrive. And thanks to Brown, every child at USM has the chance to find a book that sparks their love of reading—one page at a time.

About Michael Tauscher:

Michael Tauscher has served as the head of Preschool and Lower School at University School of Milwaukee since 2015. Born and raised on a family-owned farm in Pulaski, Wisconsin, he holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and a master’s degree in educational leadership. With 24 years of experience as an educator, including 17 years as an administrator, Tauscher has worked in early childhood, elementary, and middle school settings, including teaching 3rd, 4th, and 5th grades and gaining international teaching experience in Kyoto, Japan.