School Libraries and the 21st Century

Workshop Series Spring 2010by Alisha Marks

What Today's School Librarian is not  • “Loud Librarian” (link)

• "Keeper of the books"• library hermit 

 

The Role of the School Librarian?

• We wear many "hats"!• As Teacher...• As Instructional partner...• Information specialist...• Program administrator...

Education? Qualifications?

• Educationo Masters degree (in New York)o 100 hours of field experienceo Internship

• Qualificationso NYSTCE: LAST, ATSW, and CST School

Library Media• Eligible for National Board Certification• We are teachers

Standards

• New York State Standardso School librarians should be familiar with

ALL standards•  Standards for the 21st Century Learner

Fixed v Flex Schedules in LibrariesWhat is a fixed schedule?

o Usually in Elementary schoolso Library time is usually considered a special like

art, music and gym. o Many teachers use this time as a prep.

What is a flexible schedule?o Usually in middle and high schools: o Library is open all day to everyone, at anytime. o Composed of scheduled visits and informal visits

to the library.o Time for teachers and librarians to collaborate.o Also allows time for the school librarian to do

administrative tasks.

A "Normal" Day in the Life Includes:• Greeting students in the morning and, if you don’t have an assistant/clerk, book exchange•Teaching classes•Administrative work (ordering and processing books etc.)•Meeting teachers to plan lessons or help with resources•Help students who come in looking for resources•Curriculum committee meeting(s)•Book talking•Additional school activities (book club, morning news show etc.)•And more!

How can we help you, the Teacher?• Resources! Resources! Resources! • Collaborate on units and lessons• Professional development• Curriculum