Capital Region BOCES Arts and Library Program Manager Annie Gersztoff is focused on building a strong network of support for school librarians as she takes the helm as president of the New York State School Library Systems (SLS) Association. 

Gersztoff joined the Capital Region BOCES Educational Support Services division in 2019, where she oversees the School Library Systems service. 

“When I was a new systems director, I often turned to my peers and colleagues across the state in the same position,” she said. “As a librarian, you’re the only one in the building sometimes; it can be the same for school library systems directors. I really value the association because it really helps me to do the best job that I can for the librarians in our region.” 

Gersztoff is committed to collaborating with other SLS directors to build a supportive network for school librarians, recognizing that while the profession is rewarding, it comes with unique challenges.

“I think people think we just check books in and out, but I like to think of us as freedom fighters,” she said. “Preserving democracy and civic engagement is really important to us. For school librarians in particular, because we work with children, we can help instill those ideals in our students to participate in the community around them.”

Some of the issues on her agenda this year include advancing the Freedom to Read Act, which was vetoed by the Governor last year. The legislation would require school districts to have a reconsideration or book challenge policy. Members of the association are also discussing media literacy and e-book procurement. 

“There’s legislation out there about how we procure e-books, how we interact with vendors and what should be in the contracts.  I’ve had a lot of input on that piece of legislation,” she said. 

Furthermore, Gersztoff looks forward to strengthening the SLS Association’s mentoring program for new system directors, continuing their “hot topic” meetings so the group can talk about important issues, and ensuring their professional standards are met. 

“Annie’s appointment as president of the School Library System Association is a landmark achievement for ESS and the broader Capital Region BOCES community,” said ESS Director Kelly Masline. “Her leadership at the state level ensures that ESS remains a pioneer in literacy and digital innovation, directly bringing the most advanced resources and advocacy back to the students and educators we serve.”