My Role As The School Librarian Essay -- eduaction

Everyday I walk into my school library with the hope of influencing a student or a teacher to read a new book, use a new search strategy, or to collaborate on a unit of study. My goals for students range from getting to know them and their interests and then guiding the student to these new sources or literature. I look upon the library as a learning lab or, as some in my profession have dubbed it, the Learning Commons. Every morning I greet anywhere from 50 to 80 students who are waiting for the first bell of the day. These students are in the library because they have made a decision that this is their place; a hangout for those students who are drawn to a vibrant environment that is teeming with learning and discussion. The Library Commons at Olathe Northwest is a natural extension of the secondary library’s traditional mission in a digital world. My library offers a wide range of elements to foster student learning in new and creative ways. My goal is that this space fits the need of every student. Students who need to complete an assigned task that calls for collaboration can meet in the library and plan, discuss and complete their assignment. At the same time other students can be searching for a great book or looking online for sports scores or prom dresses. The forty computers in the library offer access for any student who walks in the door. And just in case more computers are needed, a wireless laptop can be called into service. My school library is a vibrant place that welcomes all students, there is something for everyone and as the teacher-librarian I am proud to say that I listen to my patrons and work to achieve the goal of providing a learning space that fills the needs of all who enter. The course to ac... ... time together outside of school hours. In my role as the school librarian I have access to every student and teacher in the building. I try to reach all of these people through creative and relevant library-based programs. I want the library to invite all users through its doors. I entice the I don’t like to read with great technology and computer resources. For the students who can’t get enough of the latest Manga book I am willing to stop at the bookstore and pick up the newest entry in that series. Regarding teachers, I am all about perfecting the collaborative effort to meet student learning. I have established a climate of respect. Respect for the learner, the teacher and the content material. Students genuinely like the library and my hope is that they will continue to use libraries as adults and they will be strong advocates for schools and libraries.