School libraries support and innovate to help the school community meet the demands of the curriculum and the community within which they are situated. Through interactions with all departments within the school they aim to resource the teachers and equip the students through delivery of resources, both physical and intangible that fulfil the cross curriculum priorities and build the general capabilities of students as outlined in the Australian Curriculum. A major focus is the delivery of ICT skills ensuring that all members of the community are ready for the evolving information society of today. Whole school priorities are address by the library, such as literacy initiatives and new technologies that are included in the school resources.
Within the school structure the library is situated in the heart of the school acting as a conduit for all its customers: teachers, students, parents and administration. It is important that teacher librarian not only understands the curriculum but also the needs of the school community. Attending departmental meeting, being part of committees and having a strong working relationship with the curriculum leaders team helps ensure that the library is not only adequately meeting current needs, but also building for future needs before they arise.
Schools need to be able to respond to the society they are in. Just as businesses cater for their customers, schools need to cater for their students’ needs. Rigid standards put in place for all schools regardless of the community that they serve is antiquated. Individual education plans that allow for teachers to cater for the needs of their students will allow for students to reach their full potential. “Divergent thinking” on how to best educate students will allow our students to meet the changing needs of our society (Robinson, 2010). Promoting collaboration in both teachers and students allows for them to thrive and the school library is the perfect place for this to be demonstrated.
Robinson, K. [RSA Animate]. (2010, October 14). Changing education paradigms [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zDZFcDGpL4U
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