Beyond Books: Amanda Crossley at Santa Maria College
Libraries have always been a cornerstone of learning, but in today’s digital world, they’re also hubs of innovation, curiosity, and critical thinking.
Amanda Crossley, Head of Library, is leading this transformation. With a passion for books, technology, and lifelong learning, Amanda and her team are redefining what it means to connect students with information, stories, and skills that inspire discovery and learning.
What first drew you to a career in libraries?
I’ve always been fascinated by how libraries are evolving. The constant changes in the information landscape – including AI – keep me thinking critically, solving problems, and finding creative ways to support our students. Libraries are a space where curiosity and innovation meet, and that’s what drew me in.
Can you tell us about your journey to become Head of Library at Santa Maria College?
I’ve always been a bookworm at heart, and libraries have always been my happy place. I began my career as a teacher, but quickly realised my passion was also in libraries. So, I thought, why not have the best of both worlds? Thus, I completed a Masters in Teacher Librarianship and have been fortunate to lead the Library at Santa Maria, teaching and shaping library programs that ignite a love of reading and learning.
How have libraries, and the role of librarians, evolved since you began your career?
Libraries are so much more than just a physical space now. We develop programs to help students navigate a constantly changing information landscape. With technology advancing rapidly, librarians are leaders in information literacy and increasingly, AI literacy – teaching students how to find, evaluate, and use information responsibly and creatively.
How do you see the library’s role in supporting student learning
Our goal is to connect every student with the right resources. We provide workshops, digital tools, and guidance on everything from Google search strategies and referencing to evaluating websites and assessing AI outputs. Whether it’s finding the perfect book or mastering research skills, the library is a place where students grow as confident, curious learners.
What initiatives or programs are you most proud of leading?
Since my time at Santa Maria, the Library team has created upGrade, an online platform that embraces lifelong learning.
I’m particularly proud of upGrade. We developed the platform to complement face-to-face study skills lessons. It quickly evolved to meet the needs of students and teachers alike. Students can brush up on skills anytime, and teachers can direct learning at the point of need. The gamification elements make learning fun, and we’re thrilled that upGrade has been recognised with the 2022 SLAV Innovators Award and WASLA’s Library of the Year in 2023.
How do you and your team inspire students to read for pleasure in a digital age?
In a world overflowing with screens, our goal is to make reading feel fresh, social, and irresistible. We combine the best of both worlds – digital and print – by curating vibrant displays on our Vivi screens and the library portal, and running competitions. We also create inclusive, welcoming spaces where students can explore stories without pressure, from graphic novels to classic fiction.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I love spending time with my family, which at the moment, with a toddler, involves watching a lot of Peppa Pig and Bluey!
What’s currently on your bedside table or reading list?
Right now, I’m completely absorbed in The Prison Healer series by Lynette Noni. It’s an Australian fantasy series that’s full of heart and unexpected twists, the kind of story that keeps you up far too late saying, “just one more chapter!”
What’s something your colleagues might be surprised to learn about you?
I used to do the Lindy Hop dancing. It was such a fun hobby and great fitness too!
From promoting a love of reading to pioneering award-winning initiatives like upGrade, Amanda is proof that libraries are far from old-fashioned. They are evolving, dynamic spaces that prepare students for the future. Her work ensures that every Santa Maria girl has the tools, confidence, and curiosity to navigate an ever-changing information landscape, both on campus and beyond.
- AIEducation, Featured, InnovativeLearning, LIbraryInformationServices, LifelongLearner, ReadingforPleasure, SantaMariaCollege, StaffSpotlight, StudentCuriosity, TeacherLibrarian, upGradePlatform
Author: Santa Maria College
Santa Maria College is a vibrant girls school with a growing local presence and reputation. Our Mission is to educate young Mercy women who act with courage and compassion to enrich our world. Santa Maria College is located in Attadale in Western Australia, 16 km from the Perth CBD. We offer a Catholic education for girls in Years 5 – 12 and have 1300 students, including 152 boarders.
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