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Evolving Role of School Librarians

The document discusses the role of school librarians based on interviews with community members, revealing a traditional view focused on book circulation and organization. The author reflects on their evolving perception of the librarian's role as a facilitator of learning, emphasizing collaboration with teachers and promoting digital literacy. The author recognizes the need for greater advocacy for the librarian's contributions and plans to take a more proactive approach in integrating the library into the school's educational mission.

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rich keed
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7 views2 pages

Evolving Role of School Librarians

The document discusses the role of school librarians based on interviews with community members, revealing a traditional view focused on book circulation and organization. The author reflects on their evolving perception of the librarian's role as a facilitator of learning, emphasizing collaboration with teachers and promoting digital literacy. The author recognizes the need for greater advocacy for the librarian's contributions and plans to take a more proactive approach in integrating the library into the school's educational mission.

Uploaded by

rich keed
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

1.

1 Discussion Post: The Role of the School Librarian


Interviews with School Community Members
To gain a further insight into how the librarian's role is viewed by people within my school
community, I interviewed three people:
1. Mr. James Mwangi – English Teacher:
"A school librarian assists students in locating appropriate books and materials. They also aid
teachers with lesson materials."
2. Achieng Atieno – Form 2 Student:
"They assist us in borrowing books and teach us how to use the computers to do research."
3. Mrs. Hellen Njeri – Parent and PTA Member:
"I believe it's the librarian's job to keep the library tidy, to instruct reading habits, and to ensure
that students utilize the space effectively."
Reflection on My Role in the Library
The interviews portrayed a conventional but narrow perception of a school librarian primarily
involved in book circulation, organization, and assistance with reading. The National Policy and
Guidelines Framework for School Libraries in Kenya and the module resources present a far
more active role. I now perceive myself as a facilitator of learning, rather than a manager of
resources.
My duty also includes working in liaison with teachers, developing physical and virtual
resources, and incorporating research skills within the curriculum. For instance, I support
inquiry-based learning projects that infuse critical thinking. I also offer digital literacy lessons to
students, enabling them to use online resources safely and efficiently. The librarian is required to
initiate reading promotions, develop welcoming learning spaces, and assist students in acquiring
independent learning.
With this wider vision, I now want to be more proactive working with teaching staff, planning
literacy events, and placing the library at the heart of learning. This change from supportive to
strategic role has altered the way I tackle day-to-day tasks and longer-term planning.
What Surprised or Changed My Thinking
What struck me most forcibly was the definite gap between professional expectations and
community perceptions. Although the people I spoke to had good intentions, none of them
named crucial aspects such as curriculum collaboration, e-learning, or student welfare. This
served to underline the necessity for greater advocacy and visibility of the total contribution of
the librarian.
I've also come to understand the value of using leadership and initiative. Librarians cannot wait
to be invited; we must take an active role in providing assistance, co-planning instruction, and
demonstrating how library services enhance classroom instruction. This module has shifted my
perspective: I now see my role as not merely supportive, but central to learning. In the future, I
will interact more with teachers and students, illustrate the library's contribution, and fight for its
position at the center of the school's mission.

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