Contact: Dolores (Mohr) Kenyon
E-mail: dolores@wiclarkcountyhistory.org
----Surnames: Strangfeld, Dickinsen
----Source: Clark County Press (Neillsville, Clark, Co) 7/10/2019
Neillsville – Strangfeld to be New Library Media Instructor (2019)
Strangfeld to be New Library Media Instructor
Melissa Strangfeld
By Valerie Brecht
There will be a different librarian at the Neillsville School District this year; however, the individual is a familiar face to the district.
Melissa Strangfeld will take on the role of library media instructor.
Strangfeld has taught seventh and eighth grade social studies at Neillsville for the last three years. Prior to that, she worked in the Neillsville K-8 library as support staff.
“I am excited because I think the school librarian has the best job in the school. I love learning and teaching kids to learn is the best way to empower them,” she said.
“I want to create a safe space for our students to read, think, create and have fun,” she added.
Strangfeld follows Brent Dickinsen, who retired from the position at the end of last school year.
Strangfeld possesses a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and broad field social studies from UW-Stevens Point.
One of Strangfeld’s main responsibilities in her new position will be to teach students how to find information in the library and how to use technology and online resources.
“I like to help people find what they are looking for; in a school environment that could be a book, resources, or ‘how-to’ for technology,” she said.
She will also assist students in finding the books they want and teach them how to research for projects. Her goal is to enable self-motivated learners.
“I want to teach methods for independently discovering and finding the information needed,” said Strangfeld.
“I wanted to become a librarian because I enjoy helping people find the information they need and want. I like finding the answers to questions using problem solving, critical thinking and research. I love to read and want to share that by helping to connect students with books and information,” she said.
Along with a new instructor, the library media center itself got a facelift this summer. It was painted, among other updates.
“We are creating an environment to spark reading, thinking and creating. There will be new décor that will challenge students to think and have fun while reading and use skills associated with reading,” said Strangfeld.
Library staff members have been at work reorganizing the library media center to make it easier for students and staff to find materials.
Strangfeld is from Neillsville. She and her husband, Matt, have two children, Morgan in seventh grade and Lucas in fifth grade, plus a fur baby, Roxie. They also have several nieces and nephews.
Strangfeld’s interests include reading, taking care of her flowerbeds, going on road trips with the kids and taking photos.
People may visit the new library at the open house on Tuesday, Aug. 27, from 6 to 8 p.m.
