Flotsam

As you enter the library, I have a door full of quotes and comics and other funny business.  This is the second year I have done this.  Originally, it was just a place for me to "lighten up" the library and appeal to some students' funny bones as they waited in line for their teacher.  But, like all good intentions, this was usually thwarted by the time crunch that comes from being locked into a 50 minute special area schedule. I call it my FLOTSAM door. (Yes, I technically know it should be jetsam because flotsam is unintentional and jetsam is on purpose but how can I start a conversation about the word and steer them to David Wiesner's book with jetsam.)

I add things as I find them and like them.  This morning I added a few more and a 5th grade student , let's call him Joe,  actually stopped on his way to the office to see what I was hanging up today.  I asked which one was his favorite (the Garfield one) and he looked at the new ones and decided he likes the "curling up a new book" the best.  I told him to have a good day and smiled at the little things that make an impact. 

Lest you think I work in a land of wonderful children who love the library and everything about it, let me share the reality check that occur just mere minutes (dare I say - seconds, afterwards) as Joe proceeded up the steps.  He passed another 5th grader, let's call him Tim, on the way to take attendance to the office. Here is the conversation that ensued:

Joe: Mrs. Bixby is putting new jokes up on the door.
Tim: So?
Joe: I just read them.
Tim: They're stupid.
Joe: See you in Math.

Ahhh, the joys and sorrows of being an elementary school librarian.   Moral of this story:

One librarian's flotsam is another person's junk!