Getting to Know Mrs. Andrea Cook P ‘35, Educational Technology Instruction & Innovation Librarian PK-8

Each week through our Faculty/Staff Spotlight series, we invite our community members to get to know Gulliver Prep teachers and staff members across every division. This week, our Spotlight features Mrs. Andrea Cook P ‘35, Educational Technology Instruction & Innovation Librarian PK-8. Read on to learn about how libraries have changed, the last book she read, two women she admires, and more.

Q: How long have you been at Gulliver? Do you have a favorite Gulliver memory?

A: This is my 15th year at Gulliver. With being here for so long it’s hard to have a favorite memory. My first many years were spent at the South Miami Campus. Those years are very special to me.

Q: What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you? 

A: My Associate Degree is in voice (singing). I’m also an avid crafter.

Q: Pandemic aside, how have libraries changed over the past few years?

A: Without a doubt, students and adults almost always choose a physical book over an ebook for novels. But researching has definitely shifted due to the internet. So much information is available at our fingertips. My goal is to provide students with information literacy skills to be able to sift through all of that information locating (and citing) reliable sources.

Q: What is your favorite thing about being an Educational Technology Instruction & Innovation Librarian at the PK-8 Campus?

A: My favorite thing is seeing people realize what an asset I can be to their lessons and their students. Allowing me to help with resources and come into their classrooms is what gives me joy.

Q: This Women’s History Month, who are some women you admire?

A: My mother and grandmother are my influences. My mom is my rock. She has always supported and encouraged me to do, and be, anything. My grandmother was an amazing woman, as well. At 18 she purchased her first building and ran a successful beauty salon until she retired.

Q: What are your goals for this school year?

A: My goal is to do the best I can to keep myself and my family mentally healthy during a pandemic.

Rapid fire!

Last book you read: Open House by Katie Sise

Your go-to afternoon snack: Target caramel and cashew trail mix

Favorite time of year: Summer. Spending time with my family is priceless.

A movie you’ll never get tired of watching: Pirates of the Caribbean (trilogy)

Favorite Amazon purchase made during quarantine: Stainless steel tumblers and resin molds