Hello, I am Krystal Gagen-Spriggs.
I spent years exploring the intersection of the library and the gym, using physical strength as a foundation for understanding my own capacity. But I have evolved. Today, I am a Lecturer in Teacher Librarianship and a PhD researcher at Charles Sturt University, dedicated to a new kind of “lifting.”
I am now focused on lifting back the covers of the complex, quiet systems that shape how we read, how we learn, and how we exist as individuals in academic and library spaces.
This site is the map of my history. It houses the foundations of where I started and serves as a space for my current research interests, inclusive pedagogy, and the authentic, unmasked life.
I invite you to join me in these deeper dives, where we move beyond the superficial and into the light.
Lifting Through Time
December 2015
The Foundation: Graduated from the Master of Education (Teacher Librarianship) at Queensland University of Technology
March 2016
The Start: Launched the blog as a pedagogical tool to demonstrate inquiry-based learning in action for my high school students.
January 2017
The Alignment: Co-founded VALHALLA Strength in South Brisbane, bridging the gap between my dual worlds of movement and literacy.
November 2018
The Tester: Enrolled in a Master of Education, Educational Research at Charles Sturt University.
February 2020
The Research: Commenced PhD candidacy at Charles Sturt University, focusing on the intersection of school reading cultures and teacher librarian influence.
December 2021
The Pivot: Appointed as a Lecturer in Teacher Librarianship in the School of Information and Communication Studies at Charles Sturt University, embracing a career dedicated to academic research and digital pedagogy.
June 2026
The End of an Era: Closure of Valhalla Strength South Brisbane.
Present
I am currently in the final phases of my PhD candidacy with Charles Sturt University, answering the question…
What factors affect the teacher librarian’s influence on reading cultures in schools?
Living & Learning Authentically
My research is deeply personal. As a scholar living with AuDHD and a suite of chronic health conditions, I approach information studies through the lens of lived experience. I am committed to neurodivergent-informed research paradigms that value accessibility, rest, and sensory safety. My work is not just an academic pursuit; it is a dedicated effort to ensure that the “quiet” voices are fully seen, heard, and supported within the education systems we navigate.
Navigating This Space
This site has been restructured to reflect my personal approach to navigating my life, with the following categories. Each has a unique purpose, aligning with my past, present or future.
The Library
This is my academic space. It contains the “heavy lifting” of my research, such as my thesis thoughts, reflections on research literature I’ve read or conferences I’ve attended, as well as commentary on industry-related reports. It also houses the records of my publications and presentations.
The Workshop
Here, I unpack the how and why of inclusive pedagogy. This space is dedicated to practical insights on learning, neurodivergent-informed teaching, and the tools I use to bridge the gap between complex research and classroom application.
The Hearth
This is the most personal room. It is where I share reflections on living an authentic, unmasked life while navigating AuDHD and chronic health conditions. It is a space for the quiet, reflective side of my journey, focusing on rest, sensory safety, and community.
The Archives
This holds the foundations of my history. It houses the legacy of my years as a gym owner and my early blogging work. While these posts represent a different chapter of my life, they remain here as a record of the journey that led to my current research focus.
The Map
This page that you are currently on, is referred to as the map. It outlines not only how my site has evolved to reflect the changes in my life, but it also provides you with tools you need to navigate this site.
Whether you are here for the rigour of research, the practicality of inclusive pedagogy, or a shared moment of reflection on living an authentic life, I am so glad you have found your way here. Thank you for joining me in these deeper dives. Together, let’s keep lifting the heavy into the light.
Disclaimer: All views and opinions expressed are my own and all images used are either owned by myself, used with permission, or are Public Domain.