Staff Spotlight: Abby Lott - school librarian at Lincoln East High School

December 5, 2025

Every week, we shine a spotlight on one Lincoln Public Schools staff member! This week, meet Abby Lott, school librarian at Lincoln East High School.

“Abby is constantly developing creative ways to bring students into the library. She encourages the students to check out books and works to inspire a lifelong love of reading. Abby actively collaborates with teachers, reaching out to plan lessons and projects that incorporate the library’s resources. She is always excited when a teacher contacts her to brainstorm or partner on new ideas. Three times a week, Abby hosts story time for Life Skills classes. She reads aloud, asks thought-provoking questions and uses dry-erase boards to help students communicate and interact with the story. Each period includes a craft activity and time to enjoy more books. The students truly look forward to their time with Mrs. Lott and their visits to the library. The library is also home to a variety of monthly activities for both the students and staff. Every single month, Abby ensures that the library is filled with exciting events and activities that showcase the creativity and community spirit of the East library. Beyond her library duties, Coach Lott also serves as the reserve volleyball coach. Many of her players visit the library daily because she has made it an inviting, safe and welcoming space for everyone. She’s also known as the school’s unofficial tech expert—always ready to help colleagues solve their technology challenges. Looking back over the past few school years, it’s incredible to see all that Abby has accomplished and how she continues to make the library the true hub of East High. Her energy, creativity and passion for literacy are shaping a lasting legacy as East High's librarian est. 2019.” - Tosha Mansheim, library secretary, East High School 

In a few sentences, briefly describe your role at LPS.
I started in LPS as an English teacher. My current role is the school librarian at Lincoln East High School. I am also the reserve volleyball coach for the Lincoln East volleyball program.

How long have you worked for LPS?
This is my 11th year working for LPS.

What inspired you to become part of the education field at LPS?
My mom, Sonya Zimmerman, worked for Lincoln Public Schools for 34 years. Growing up, I saw the dedication she brought to her students and the appreciation she received in return. She brought so much joy to the "Zimmies" in her classroom, and I hope to do the same for the students I work with.

What has been your favorite part of working here? What aspect of your job do you find most rewarding?
My favorite part of working for Lincoln Public Schools is getting to watch the students and student-athletes grow throughout their high school careers. There are many rewarding parts of my job. I love watching students' faces light up when a book they requested has been purchased. I also love collaborating with classroom teachers to create unique learning experiences. Whether it be creating a mini golf course in the library with PE students or promoting the use of databases in an English research project, the chance to work with staff and students is very rewarding.

Did you attend LPS as a student? If so, which school(s)? If not, where are you from?
I attended St. Joseph's and Pius X High School here in Lincoln.

What path did you take after completing your formal education?
I attended the University of Nebraska-Lincoln for my undergraduate degree. I majored in secondary English education. I then attended the University of Nebraska at Omaha for my master's degree in secondary education with a focus on library sciences.

What do you enjoy most about the Lincoln community?
My best friend and husband, Nolan, also works for Lincoln Public Schools. We are both from Lincoln and love the friendly community. He is a social studies teacher and baseball coach for Lincoln East. We have two daughters, Kamryn and Harper. I love this community because it is a great place to raise our children.

What is your favorite childhood book or a book that has influenced your life positively?
When I was younger, my favorite series was "Little House on the Prairie" and my favorite stand alone was "The Giver." A book I have loved lately is "The Women" by Kristin Hannah.

Share a shout out to a former teacher who impacted your life.
Maestra Hayes (Katie Hayes) was my high school Spanish teacher. She created a fun and challenging environment to learn a new language. She had engaging assignments that made me want to learn. She also took the time to get to know each of her students. Shoutout to Maestra Hayes!

Becky Pasco was the reason I decided to become a school librarian. She has a way of inspiring anyone she comes into contact with. Her determination to voice the power of libraries, literacy and the right to education will always stick with me

Do you know a LPS staff member we should feature for Staff Spotlight? Fill out this form to nominate them!

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