The Region 7 Digital Learning department is proud to have 2 certified librarians on staff to help districts with all of their library needs. Michelle Cooper and Michael Pettiette are adept at taking your library to the next level and turning it into a hub for creativity and learning!
What is our goal?
To meet the varying needs of our districts, there are two types of library services available.
Library and Digital Media Services
The Library Digital Media Service is designed to support districts with certified librarians by providing ongoing, high-quality professional development. Serving over 20 districts through the cooperative, participants engage in both in-person and online workshops offered through Region 7, as well as collaborative monthly PLCs that foster continuous learning, idea sharing, and alignment with best practices in school library programs.
Membership includes all district librarians and library staff.
Includes attendance at the FITT Conference for all district librarians and library staff.
Provides access to regional meetings for all district librarians and library staff.
Provides access to specialized professional development offered face-to-face at Region 7 ESC, online, or via webinar.
Certified Librarian of Record Services
The Certified Librarian of Record (CLOR) program is designed to help schools align their library services with Texas School Library Standards and Guidelines by providing access to certified librarian expertise and support. Its goal is to strengthen library programs through improved instruction, increased student engagement, enhanced access to resources and technology, and better integration with campus curriculum—ultimately ensuring high-quality, effective library services that support student learning and achievement.
Includes all benefits listed under Library and Digital Media Services
Service may be purchased for any number of campuses that do not have a certified librarian on staff.
ESC Librarian will serve as Certified Librarian of Record for selected campuses that do not meet this requirement.
ESC Librarian will assist with:
Monthly campus visits offerring professional development
Monthly PLC's at Region 7
Facilitating the ordering books and supplies
Updating library system/MARC records
Maintaining database systems/digital resources
Facilitating reading programs (AR, Reading Counts, etc.)
Creating and sustaining Makerspace and STEM programs
Supporting library staff (aides, paraprofessionals, teachers, etc.)
Enhancing digital learning initiatives
FREE use of Digital Learning Tech Tools
Facilitating reading programs (AR, Reading Counts, etc.)
Supporting campus/district Digital Learning initiatives
Impact Story
The Certified Librarian of Record (CLOR) program supports 74 campuses across Region 7 by providing expert guidance in policy and collection development aligned with state standards and requirements. Through this work, campuses are equipped with compliant, high-quality library programs that ensure equitable access to diverse, relevant resources for students and staff. By strengthening policies and curating collections that reflect both educational goals and legal expectations, the program enhances instructional support, promotes literacy and inquiry, and contributes to a more consistent, effective learning environment across the region.
In Harmony ISD, Superintendent Michael Alphin shared a powerful statement highlighting the effectiveness of the CLOR program in strengthening library services and supporting student learning.
"The Certified Librarian of Record (CLOR) has been an incredible asset to our district libraries. Their leadership, dedication, and expertise consistently strengthen and elevate our library programs. One of their greatest strengths is the supportive and collaborative team. They bring exceptional support to our district libraries by providing clear communication, practical resources, and meaningful professional development opportunities. A great example is their regularly shared newsletters. They are especially impactful—filled with innovative ideas, helpful updates, and inspiring strategies that librarians can immediately implement. Harmony ISD is fortunate to participate in this program with such knowledgeable and supportive people. Harmony ISD is excited to continue working with the CLOR program!"
Additionally, Superintendent Chris Mason at Quitman ISD shared the following thoughts.
"Quitman ISD has utilized the Certified Librarian On Record (CLOR) for the past few school years. This service has allowed us to staff our campus libraries, knowing that a CLOR staff member will provide strong support and training. The expertise that the Region 7 staff provided is unmatched. They are proactive and communicate changes quickly and clearly. Further, the staff works diligently to understand our community values and help build our library programs to meet those standards. CLOR is a support that all schools should utilize and implement. The CLOR program has enhanced, simplified, and supported our overall district library system."
Participant Quotes
"I always come away with ideas I can make my own for my library. During the workshop, I was able to create a flashcard game for our students reading Project Hail Mary in their science classrooms." Karla Carr, Hallsville ISD
"This is my favorite every summer! I keep this document open 24/7 throughout my year!!!"
Heather Cox, Brownsboro ISD
If you have any questions regarding these services, contact Michelle at the email or phone number provided below.
Contact Us:
Michelle Cooper, M.Ed.
Digital Learning Specialist
mcooper@esc7.net
(903)988-6918
Michael Pettiette, M.Ed.
Digital Learning Specialist
mpettiette@esc7.net
(903)988-6925