Teacher librarians are experts in curriculum planning and pedagogies in all subject areas, as well as in information management services and programs that contribute to improved student outcomes across all stages (https://asla.org.au/what-is-a-teacher-librarian, n.d.). In contrast, classroom teachers usually specialise in one or two subject areas, and as such, prepare teaching and learning programs and lessons to be implemented in their assigned classes. Therefore they usually select specific subject materials for their students that reflect their areas of expertise. In contrast, the teacher librarian needs to consult with the principal and heads of faculty in order to select resources that will contribute to the enrichment of the whole school population.

The teacher librarian is considered to be the information specialist in the school, however he/she should still work together with classroom teachers to plan, teach and evaluate teaching and learning programs in all subject areas so as to enhance the effective integration of ICT resources that will lead to increased student participation and consequent development of 21st century capabilities.  The classroom teacher needs to supervise ethical use of devices and ensure that students stay on task during their lessons, however, the teacher librarian needs to educate the whole school about ethically responsible Internet use in the form of orientation sessions held in the library, especially aimed at younger cohorts. In their leadership role, the teacher librarian must raise staff awareness of the essential need for students to incorporate sophisticated ICT skills into their learning tasks, and of the importance of accessing current and reputable Internet resources to refine these skills and improve learners’ outcomes.

References

Australian School Library Association. (2019). What is a Teacher Librarian? https://asla.org.au/what-is-a-teacher-librarian