I have gained insight and knowledge for standard by attending the VAASL conference in 2024 and learning about all of the new books available (especially to make the library more diverse and equitable for all readers). When Ellen Oh spoke I was moved to tears with her speech. She described her childhood and related that to the book, so I ended up purchasing, Finding Junie Kim. I had so many students wanting to check out this book after playing a video from Ellen Oh's website.
I was able to share what a student created after I recommended the book, Ghost Boys by Jewell Parker Rhodes, as a video for the morning announcements. He loved the book so much that he wanted to create something to show others. This is one way I have growth in the SLIB program, by being able to speak publicly about books that I have read, and want to share with others.