Before embarking on the journey to ‘Library Land’, I had been a secondary science teacher for almost a decade! Science was always my passion.. biological sciences in particular. I loved being in a role where I could inspire learning and share my love of science and the biological world with young people. I loved being in a role where I could observe these young learners be absolutely MIND-BLOWN as they viewed a cell through a microscope for the first time. I loved being the ‘gross science lady’ that didn’t mind poking and prodding a specimen during a dissection.. without gloves! I l LOVED teaching science until…

I returned to a part-time load after becoming a mum of two and had multiple irregularly scheduled lessons. This made it difficult to establish a rapport with students and provide continuity and stability. Soon after, an opportunity arose to supervise senior study periods in the library whilst temporarily managing it as there was no current librarian in place.

Before this point I had no idea of just how extensive and significant the role of the librarian is. Preconceived ideas and stereotypes had me thinking it comprises predominantly of identifying and cataloging resource as well as of ‘beeping’ books for loans and returns ! Little did I know just how crucial a librarian is in relaying and manipulating information in order to be a conduit between the information landscape and the user.

After a year of  filling that role and networking with other librarians and delving a little deeper into the core of it, I began developing a new passion and flare for this inspiring and enriching space that was a haven for so many students (freely coming during their breaks to do work/read). I knew I could make a difference if I were to comprehensively understand the ins and outs of the role.. if I were to pursue this academically. I knew this was the gateway that could lead our school into better learning habits and shift the culture into a positive, whole-school growth.

Small initiatives (book club, “don’t judge a book by its cover” event with prizes and giveaways, “Bookflix” wall) proved to be successful in arousing student curiosity and in turn add to my confidence in this new direction. It was like students observing a cell for the first time all over again! They were excited about reading and using the library space and curious about what they may learn/uncover.

A book enclosed in a brown paper bag for “Don’t judge a book by its cover” event.

As we progress through this course (although it’s only early days), I am developing a more profound understanding of the role of a TL in schools. It’s evident even through the word cloud on our course page, which we all have contributed to, that this role is multifaceted and extends over numerous fields. From facilitator and information specialist to a knowledgeable  and influencing leader. But my stand out description so far about the role of a TL, quoting Lori Korodaj, has to be “a ninja by stealth.. enacting change across the whole school community”.

Schools Need School Libraries Campaign