It was of interest to read of the challenges facing collection development. Being an independent school I would be interested to know if our school library is restricted by any code of ethics. Another question to ask the librarians!
We are fortunate at our school to have access to a Director of Teaching and Learning and a Director of Innovative Learning and Digital Literacy who both work closely with teachers and students to provide multiple formats, software platforms and delivery modes. Our schools goal and strategic plan is to provide opportunities for our students to be Next Generation Learners and for teachers to Teach for Understanding.
Teaching to student learning styles and resourcing for these students was interesting to read and the TEDX video that focused on debunking the myth of why some teachers think it is problematic. The wonderful thing about the teacher librarians role is they can be pivotal in the success of learning for all students regards of their learning style. So long as they ensure all formats and delivery modes are available and are open to feedback from teachers, IT staff and students.
Our Directors as mentioned above work very closely with staff and collaborate with the teacher Librarians to provide a teaching collection or resources. These include strategies for practice, systemic policy documents, digital tools and software, and tool kits in multiple formats and delivery modes. These are shared during staff development days and staff meetings.
It was interesting to read and reflect on the role of the Teacher Librarian to keep updated on curriculum changes to ensure these reflect resources. The process of evaluation (reviewing the value of the existing collection) and deselection (weeding and disposing of resources).
I know myself that I enjoy reading books online. Kindle is a favourite and I have recently subscribed to Audible for those times when I’m on the move such as driving to work or at the gym. So the challenge of the publishing industry that has changed so markedly since the internet in 1995 to school libraries is quite significant. Publishing across multiple platforms is now the norm.
OZLNet), establishing local networks (eg:local council libraries, local authors), sharing resources and attending conferences (Professional development – accreditation)