Sunday, April 6, 2014

The Joy of Being a Teacher Librarian

          At the end of the last school year I surprised myself by leaving my beloved third grade classroom for my school's Library Media Center. Although the decision seemed to come from out of the blue, working in a library is something I have always secretly wanted to do, and my path unfolded perfectly to this joyous new position. 

          My new role as teacher librarian is a harmonious blend of my two previous careers. Before I spent 10 years in the classroom, I worked in technology as a systems support analyst and a software trainer for a large investment bank in S.F. What I do now in my library combines the skills of these two jobs beautifully. 

          I have also just started grad school and am working towards a Master's in Library and Technology. I am so excited...and also so inspired! To be the person who's job it is to turn kids onto reading, to update the library collection to be current and abundant, to be the teacher who has a special connection with each student in the school...It's just so wonderful! I have dedicated myself to creating a true multi-age 21st Century curriculum for my school's library. I know it will take time, but I absolutely love what I am doing!

          The following two videos I find inspirational in creating a new library experience for my students. Take a peek to see where I am headed!




In this video, five authors share their fond memories of school libraries.




School library and information technology programs are a vital resource for student learning. This video highlights the essential role teacher librarians play in information and technology literacy instruction, reading advocacy, and information management.