The Role of the Library Media Specialist

An effective school library plays a critical role in preparing learners for life in an information-rich society. School libraries are dynamic learning environments that bridge the gap between access and opportunity for all K–12 learners.

Grounded in standards and best practice, school libraries are an integral component of the educational landscape. The school library provides access to a wide array of resources and an environment in which teaching and learning are the primary emphases.

The school library provides a space and place for personalized learner success; learners are encouraged to explore questions of personal and academic relevance. Under the direction of a qualified school librarian, school libraries are instrumental in fostering literacy and teaching inquiry skills to support lifelong learning.

Instruction and services provided through the school library are developed around six essential Shared Foundations—Inquire, Include, Collaborate, Curate, Explore, and Engage:

Information and Digital Literacy

Students require well-managed access to technology, print, digital, and online resources. Effective school libraries have adequate, up-to-date instructional and learning technologies and resources.

 As part of the school library, the Library Media Specialist provides leadership and instruction to educators and learners on how to use resources constructively, ethically, and safely.

To ensure learners are successful, school librarians must have opportunities to update their own knowledge regarding emerging technologies. As a result, the Library Media Specialist can then provide the support and training required to assist learners and staff on how to best use resources.

Accessibility

In an effective school library, resources are available to all. Scheduling classes in the school library should allow for responsive, open and equitable access to collections and technology, and to the services of a certified school librarian.

Scheduling should be thoughtfully designed to ensure learners have access to library spaces and resources at the point of need for an integrated school library. Additionally, the school library is not confined to the physical library space. Through technology and online resources, the effective school library provides continuous access to resources, whether in the library, classroom, learner’s home, or other remote locations.

The school library’s value is demonstrated through the close alignment between the school librarian and teachers, administration, families and community partnerships.

Librarians are seen as instructional and educational leaders through participation in various initiatives and committees. For example, leadership committees that align with the school mission and strategic plan strengthen relationships for the school library and provide opportunities for library issues to be heard among decision-makers.

An effective school library is integrated into the curriculum through ongoing efforts and a strategic plan that serves the school’s mission, educational goals, and objectives, and the school community. School librarians are evaluated using the Education Assessment Model (TEAM), which outlines the specific roles, responsibilities, and competencies of the Library Media Specialist.