As I look back on my time in the MLIS program at ODU, a common theme seems to be prevalent in every course I took- meeting the needs of people in the library where I serve. In order to create lifelong learners, you must be able to include all learners, teach them to inquire about new things and subjects, collaborate with others to work together to accomplish goals, curate resources in an organized and practical manner, explore new things and subjects, and engage all learners by capturing their attention and compelling them to want to learn more (AASL, 2018).
The school library is an institution that has so much to offer every student in a school. Although people equate libraries with books and periodicals, the foundation of the library is based on so much more. As I look forward to a career as a school librarian, I ponder the ways I can be a part of change, improvement, and the movement to bring equality and equity to all students regardless of gender, race, or socioeconomic status.
As a librarian, I realize the responsibilities I have to protect the privacy of my patrons as well as respect their viewpoints and beliefs, and this goes for children as well as adults. The job of a school librarian is to assist the student body in finding resources and books and assist them in learning how to find information online and in print while maintaining the dignity of the patrons.
By adhering to the AASL Standards, you ensure that student needs are being met. These standards are the framework for all school librarians. “Understanding how the learner standards align with the school librarian and school library standards empowers school librarians to develop a comprehensive program of instruction and activities” (AASL, 2018, p.31). The standards teach students how to increase curiosity, use evidence to find answers, interact and communicate, learn about the world around them, work with others, and become lifelong learners (AASL, 2018).
Not only must I serve the needs of my students, but I must also collaborate and work closely with colleagues. Although the school librarian does not teach classroom lessons, it is important to partner with the classroom teachers to develop ways to engage the students to foster a love for learning and reading.
As I completed coursework for the MLIS Program, I discovered so many new ideas for things I can offer the people I serve. While doing as assignment called “A Library of Things,” I was required to research the needs of people in my surrounding area and create ideas for special collections that would be beneficial and enrich the lives of people around me. This idea can be so beneficial in public and school libraries. We just have to step out of our comfort zone and go beyond what we have always done. Most people don’t realize just how much of an impact a library can have.
As I finish my time at ODU and prepare for a career as a school librarian, I look forward to the new adventures ahead and to the things I can offer the students in my library.
AASL. (2018) The national school library standards for learners, school librarians, and school libraries. Chicago, IL: ALA.