“The school library is no longer just for reading, studying and academics,” said Sarah Amorese, library media specialist at Churchville-Chili High School. “All of that still happens here, but it’s also a hub for technology, career exploration and collaboration.

“Soft skills” have taken on increased importance for younger students due to the last school year’s loss of peer interaction and in-person learning. Skills like problem solving, compromising, handling frustration, encouraging others, and sharing are vital for future success.