ETL401

Assessment 1: The Role of a Teacher Librarian

AOK ETL401 ,

As a classroom teacher, having not ever worked in a school library before, I would have to say my knowledge and understanding of a Teacher Librarian was very limited. Now having had some experience in a school library, I have quickly discovered that the role of a Teacher Librarian is not one dimensional but in fact quite complex.  There are many layers to this role.

Teacher librarians play an integral part in schools.  Not only are they the keepers of books, Teacher Librarians themselves are a walking and talking resource with a diverse set of skills which are shared regularly with students, staff and the wider community. Not any given day is the same, which to me makes this role so exciting and enjoyable.  Do we have..?  Can you fix…?  Where can I find…?  Can we use…? What do you think about…? Are just some of the questions a teacher librarian can be asked each day.  I must admit, I do not have all the answers to these questions yet but I am working on it.

I am very new to this role and know that I have a lot to learn and that there is plenty of room for growth and development.  The following are my initial thoughts about the role of a Teacher Librarian.

  • First and foremost, Teacher Librarians need to provide a multipurpose space where people feel safe and comfortable to visit. By building this learning environment, students will engage in a range of learning opportunities and have a space where they feel welcomed and supported.

 

  • The promotion of reading and reading for enjoyment is another important component. At times, this can be challenging especially for reluctant readers. However,  I believe it is important to expose students to range of quality literature, to hopefully spark students interests and get them hooked on reading and to also challenge students to broaden and extend their reading.

 

  • In focused lessons each week, along with the sharing and appreciation of literature, I view Teacher Librarians as skill builders. It is very important to teach information literacy to empower students to be able to access information and research with precision and confidence. Just as important, is the teaching of digital skills and processes. Now that we live in a digital world, we need to equip students with the knowledge and skills on how to access and safely use technology.

 

  • Developing and managing a collection of resources that are relevant to the curriculum is another important aspect of the role. Current resources and an update system is vital for providing both students and staff a rich learning experience.

 

  • Another layer of the role is working collaboratively with others, managing staff and being responsible for a budget.

 

  • Finally Teacher Librarians need to be current and up to date with professional knowledge and practice in order to contribute to the school community.

 

I lost a remarkable colleague this week.  This wonderful woman has taught me that above all this, it is essential to be approachable, open, positive and passionate about what you do.  I  aspire to be all these things in my new role.

Reasons Why

AOK About, ETL401

With the changes and demands in education over the years and returning to work after having my children, at times have left me feeling a lack of enthusiasm, overwhelmed and questioning –  Why I am doing this? Where has the fun gone? How effective am I? What impact am I really having?  I have been a primary school teacher for 18 years and a change in career path was just what I was looking for.  Three years ago, an opportunity to join the library team emerged at my school. I have not looked back since.  I am slowly gaining knowledge and skills as a Teacher Librarian and although elements are similar to classroom teaching, I have quickly realised just how complex this role is.  With the desire to continue down this path, I have enrolled in this course to expand my toolkit, develop my knowledge and understanding and continue on my learning journey.