It was only natural with her love of reading and organization for Sheena Dotson to become a librarian. Dotson’s passion for books was apparent from the beginning, when the first place she ever rode her bicycle to as a child was the library. Now, she shares the gift of reading and learning with others.
Before becoming a Big Red, Dotson previously worked in Morgantown at Cheat Lake Elementary as a reading interventionist and a librarian at Mylan Park Elementary. She is excited to begin her first year as a librarian with high schoolers, which has always intrigued her.
“I love teaching kids how to read, but at this age, you guys are reading to learn,” Dotson said. “So, I enjoy research and helping students find answers, and it’s kind of like being a detective. I’ve enjoyed both sides of the age group, but this just seems a little bit more interesting as you guys have your own ideas, your own topics for research.”
Dotson is always ready to welcome and meet students but was nervous at the start. She graduated in 2004 from Paden City High School with only 38 other students. With a big jump up in school sizes, it was daunting to begin her new librarian position. However, Dotson is honored to be a Big Red and is slowly feeling like a part of the “big family” at Parkersburg High School.
“In the beginning, it was a little bit intimidating. As the days go by though, I’m getting to know more and more students and staff members. It’s starting to feel more and more comfortable each day,” Dotson said.
Although Dotson enjoys the relaxing pastime of reading, she does not shy away from athletics and the outdoors. She likes hikes, trails, bicycle rides, beaches, and hanging out with her French Bulldog named Roman on walks and at the dog park. She also enjoys live music and estimates she has attended thousands of concerts. Dotson has traveled to all four corners of the US, including Alaska, Hawaii and Maine, which she lived in for nine years with her husband and misses dearly.
“I got to know a lot of really great people there. I worked with some really good friends there. And we go up every time we can. I just went to visit in March and I hope to go up again around Thanksgiving,” Dotson said.
As the new Big Red librarian, Dotson handles books at the circulation desk and shelves and orders books. Her biggest responsibility, though, is making a list of new books for the library. She is always open to recommendations to expand the school’s book collection. Already on the list this year is her favorite book, “Charlotte’s Web” by E. B. White. Overall, Dotson is excited to know students and staff personally and provide resources to all.
“I know technology seems to be the more popular way of reading, you know, Kindles, e-books, but I still think it’s very, very valuable for students to have and hold physical books,” Dotson said. “I look forward to increasing students’ wants and needs for books.”
