ETL-401 Assessment 1
The Teacher Librarian (TL) role is incredibly broad. From my observations since commencing teaching seventeen years ago, the role of a TL has evolved and is almost unrecognisable from when I myself was enrolled in school. In my early years of teaching, I had limited interaction and connection with the TL. The Library was completely separate from the classroom, and the TL showed little interest in fostering this connection or developing collaborative programs supporting the curriculum. Beyond compiling a box of books for students to use as a research starting point, there was minimal outreach or advocacy. In more recent years, I have been lucky enough to observe what a TL can achieve with creativity and innovation, working in partnership with the wider school community rather than in isolation.
First and foremost, the TL is responsible for the physical environment of the Library and the acquisition of physical and digital resources. These resources must meet the needs of both students and staff. In the high school environment that I work in, this is a mammoth task. TLs must meet the requirements of different KLAs, integrate resources that cater to the needs of all learners, and address the school’s pedagogical requirements and strategic goals. They must do all this whilst remaining under budget! I have observed how the library facilities have also changed with a decrease in physical books and a movement towards flexible learning spaces, ICT and associated equipment provision, and a move towards digital resources. Now, instead of the TL collecting a box of books for my class to start researching, the TL will put together a Learnpath guide and deliver a lesson on research techniques and referencing.
The role of the TL is about much more than just the provision of resources and services or the maintenance of the physical learning space. The TL is essential in creating a safe and welcoming place for students. This is something that I have observed in every school that I have worked in as a teacher. A library is an important place where students can find additional support and a sense of belonging that they may not find anywhere else. In my experience, TLs foster this by building an inclusive environment that celebrates differences and often raises awareness of this diversity.
Finally, the TL can be a driving force within the learning community. In my experience as a teacher, I have discovered that the TL is often at the forefront of educational trends and plays a vital role in developing and supporting their implementation at a whole school level. For example, the execution of a year-level (250+ students) inquiry or project-based learning activity would be nearly impossible without the expert advice and assistance of the TL. As a teacher, I have come to appreciate the significance of the TL role and the impressive outcomes that can be achieved when there is strong collaboration between the TL and the classroom teacher. I am excited by the prospect of harnessing my experiences as a teacher to continue to support students and colleagues in a different, but no less important, role.