I really enjoyed readinga about the changes that the library has gone through in the past 100 years. We hear all the time about changes in education in general, but often the library is not even addressed. To me it is very interesting to see where we came from and how we got to this point.
I feel that with the direction that the world is heading in, the library needs to be considered the hub of the school. The book addressed how this position is often one of the first to be cut or downsized, and it is so true. Last year our librarian announced that she was going to retire, and our principal had to fight to get the board to let us keep the position. Luckily, she presented enough compelling arguements and valid positives that they did rehire (hence my new position next year). It is honestly scary how little importance is placed on the profession.
One quote from the book that I realy liked and plan on posting in my classroom is "The mission of the library media program is to ensure that students and staff are effective users of ideas and information." (page 11). I think this really reflects what the profession is and how it needs to be viewed by others. I am walking into a position that for the past 6 years has been frowned upon in our district. Teachers have often complained about the lack of energy and excitement in the library. Unfortunately, the kids did not come first. I'm hoping that I can quickly turn around this perception and greatly change the attitudes of our district.
Another positive that I got from the chapter is the collaboration between public and school libraries. I really like the idea of working together and serving the students better. I'm not so sure how the shared spaces would work in a rural district like ours though.
You have a wonderful opportunity to come in and make a dynamic change to the library. Since you are coming from the building and you already know what the teachers' opinion of the library services are you are ahead of the game. In a way you have been given a gift -- you can go in and make changes that you know need to be made.
ReplyDeleteI think the whole school and public library dynamic is very much going to change because all libraries are hurting for money. Jayme mentioned in one of her postings about the libraries not sharing in the school district -- this will change as well.