Finding Joy Beyond the Bookshelves

As National Library Week celebrates the invaluable contributions of librarians, MCPS  recognizes one of its own—Cedar Grove Elementary School Media Specialist Karina-Maria Hirschhorn, a 25-year veteran of the district. She isn’t just a keeper of books; she is a cultivator of curiosity, a facilitator of voices and a builder of community. 

Hirschhorn’s philosophy echoes in the diverse collection surrounding her. “I want to make sure that what the kids read speaks to them, looks like them and that the kids learn about other cultures,” she says. “Elementary school kids are full of wonder and curiosity,” she muses. “And that fills me with wonder and curiosity, and I love that.” 

On a recent Friday morning, nine young student-journalists held a meeting to discuss the morning news. Each marking period, a small group of 4th graders volunteer to produce the morning news broadcast in the school. Hirschhorn, their mentor, guides them on how to deliver the Cedar Grove news to their peers.

Lunchtime brings a different kind of enthusiasm with a small group of fifth graders meeting for the book club organized by Hirschhorn. And during the winter, the media center transforms into a cozy “Music Cafe” where fourth and fifth graders rehearse and perform for their classmates during lunch and recess. 

“I believe very strongly that no one does anything in isolation,” she says. “I have incredible resources in media processing, I never have a problem asking a question, and my staff is just the right amount of curious and supportive.” She noted that the PTA is also incredibly supportive, and a critical driver in updating the newsroom equipment to the TV studio. 

For Hirschhorn, the greatest reward is witnessing the growth and wonder in the eyes of her students. When asked why she loves her job, she says, “It allows me to touch the future.”