Curator+of+Innovation

As I was driving through pouring Portlandia rain on the way to the 2nd Annual NCCE Teacher Librarian Summit, I came up with a new moniker for myself. I think I'm past Slayer of Information Ignorance With a Black Belt in Think Kwon Do. The idea came from an article that first appeared in the NY Times about the notion of 'curator.'

In addition to my official role as teacher librarian, I am now a **Curator of Innovation**. From the article: //"The author noted that “among designers, disc jockeys, club promoters, bloggers and thrift-store owners, ‘curate’ is code for ‘I have a discerning eye and great taste. Or more to the point, ‘I belong.’”//

Yeah, I know 'curator' screams of museums and archives, two unfortunate analogues for libraries. But if DJs and Ludacris are curators, then gosh darn it, I can roll with that. The article continues:

// "The word “curate” could be attractive because of its implied prestige, suggesting that objects, experiences or people are being chosen and presented by an expert best equipped with the necessary knowledge and experience. Hileman says, “In short, I can see the appeal of a knowledgeable specialist making selections or recommendations in an information and image-saturated culture.” //

Sounds like my job description.

Innovation? Yes, thank you very much. eBooks, GoogleDocs, YouTube, Prezi, Xtranormal, eReaders, FlipCams, podcasting....

Yes, I'm a Curator of Innovation. In the words of Ludacris..."Oh YEAH...."