Why are libraries the tallest buildings in the world? Because they have so many stories! North not only has eleven stories in its building, but it also has even more stories in the second-floor media center. Ever been down to the media center? The calm music playing in the background, the variety of seating options, and the staple metal NAHS knight in the corner create the quintessential school library environment. But who is behind the curtain of this operation? Charise Coston, a new addition to NAHS and a guiding, eager force ready to shape the library’s space.
Formerly the coordinator of library media services for APS, Coston has been a librarian for seven years. Now at North Atlanta, Coston says that she has a “fondness” for the students at NAHS. It reminds her of her high school, Schenley High School in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. “I love the diversity of this school. It reminds me of my own high school, specifically because of the IB Program. We were one of the first high schools with the IB Programme,” Coston said.
Coston first fell in love with reading in middle school; her teachers and parents had the biggest impact during this time, even carrying that support and drive throughout college. Emphasizing that as a cause of the constant support was attributed to her parents being well-informed, which she admired. Little did she know that eventually her love for reading would land her a job at the NAHS library. According to Coston, her professor at Bethune-Cookman College, Dr. Estelle Brown, was the one who “sparked the magic of reading” for her. “She would literally read the newspaper while she was driving, she brought books to life,” she said.
The next time you take a trip down to the media center, introduce yourself to Ms. Coston. She would not shy away when it comes to introducing yourself and talking, especially about books. Costons’ love for a good conversation doesn’t go unnoticed, along with the warmth and friendliness as she talks to students. Costons said her favorite part of her job is the diversity of it, particularly the reading and researching components. Although only a full month of school has gone by, senior Allison Walker talks highly of Costons. “The first time that I walked into the library as a student library aid, I was really happy when I saw Ms. Coston and her welcoming aura,” she said. “It made me excited for the year.”
Though you might not be a fan of books, the media center isn’t just all shelves of collected stories. It’s a place where students can wind down, research, and find a place to quietly work. It is under new leadership with Ms. Coston, yet it hasn’t changed. It is still a place for all students to enjoy. “The library is a great equalizer, patrons of all backgrounds can come to the library and get information,” said Costons.
