As a former teacher and parent of a now 25-year-old son, I still feel the emotional roller coaster of back-to-school season.

There’s excitement: new backpacks, fresh notebooks, stylish haircuts and the joy of reuniting with friends. But there’s also anxiety: Will my child feel confident? Will teachers feel prepared? Will homeschool families find support? Is that haircut really stylish?

Recently, I walked into Granby Library and asked kids the simple questions, “How are you feeling about going back to school this year?” Two tween boys looked at me in horror and both shook their heads with sorrow as they moaned, “noooo!”

I completely understood their sentiment. A girl roughly the same age was sitting next to 33 books she was checking out. I thought I would get a positive response from her, but I was wrong. She told me she doesn’t like school and she hates math.

“I hope there is something you like — perhaps reading?” I asked.

“I like my friends,” she said. Simple and to the point.

Whether you’re a student entering a new grade, a teacher prepping your classroom, a parent juggling schedules and making a budget, or a homeschooler planning curriculum, the transition can feel overwhelming.

But here’s the good news: Grand County Library District is here to help.

Our five-library community supports learning, creativity and connection. I love that our mission is “linking people to boundless opportunities,” and our motto is “mountain libraries elevate minds.” As director of library resources, I’m proud of how our libraries empower people to start the school year with confidence, curiosity and a safe space to connect.

• For students: Our shelves are filled with stories that inspire, challenge and comfort. Whether your child is nervous about making friends or excited to dive into science, we have books and resources that speak to their experience. Online tools like Britannica Library, Transparent Language and Explora databases are available 24/7. Our popular read-along books — physical books with audio and comprehension prompts — are great for new or reluctant readers, those with visual challenges, language learners or anyone who simply enjoys being read to.
• For teachers: Library staff can pull items based on classroom topics, visit your classroom to present online resources and create reading lists. Our Library of Things includes STEM kits, art supplies and games to enhance learning. Need a quiet space to plan or collaborate? We’ve got that, too — and it’s free.
• For parents: We offer parenting books, mental health resources and family programming. Storytimes, afterschool clubs and special events help children build social skills and explore new interests. For those navigating individualized education programs or educational transitions, our staff can guide you to helpful resources.
• For homeschoolers: Libraries are a treasure trove of curriculum support from history timelines to science kits to online art classes. Our librarians can help you find age-appropriate content and connect with other homeschooling families. Homeschool hangouts return in September at each library.

This back-to-school season, let’s shift the narrative from stress and anxiety to possibility. Let’s focus on growth, discovery, relationships and becoming more of who we are. And if you need a moment for yourself, online resource Udemy offers great self-care classes.

Whether you’re checking out a novel, attending a program or borrowing a microscope, know that you’re not alone. We’re cheering you on, ready to support your learning adventure one page, one program, one connection at a time.

Tallie Gray is the director of library resources for Grand County Library District. She can be reached at tgray@gcld.org or 970-887-9411.