Colvin’s article looks at the approaches to management within organisations and how that has developed and changed throughout history. With the recognition of humans as “knowledge workers” and organisations as “organisms” managers are adapting their structures and practices to match this (Colvin, 2000).

Connections to School Libraries:

• Organisations as organisms – A school library is a living, adapting, active, evolving unit within the larger system
• Values as a basis of managing – Create, articulate and sustain a library mission and policy statement that aligns with the school mission statement
• Human centred view of business – A school library’s purpose is to serve the members of its community which includes: student, staff and the parent community. Making sure that want the library provides meets the needs of its community at any given time. Change is inevitable but we need to make sure that we support our community with the change.
• Attraction and motivation of Knowledge workers- A Teacher Librarian as leader needs to model best practice at all times as well as collaborate and work with others. One needs to be organised and delegate accordingly, up to date with the latest trends, theories and be wise and informed about the implementation of new projects, technology or practices.
• Management is a human art – Building relationships and fostering trust with your staff is essential. Seeing the potential in others, drawing upon individuals strengths and ensuring they feel valued and an important member of the library team will help not only the functionality of your team but also the library.

Reference

Colvin, G. (2000). Managing the info era. Fortune,141(5). Retrieved from https://archive.fortune.com/magazines/fortune/fortune_archive/2000/03/06/275231/index.htm?iid=sr-link1