The first Common Belief in the National School Library Standards states that the school library is a unique and essential part of a learning community. As an integral part of the learning community a librarian must be diligent in pursuing professional development in a effort to continue to implement the most relevant and best practices. Here, I have gathered a list of resources that will guide me in my own professional growth, continued self-reflection and keep me informed and up to date on the latest research and library trends.
Professional Organizations
ASSOCIATION FOR LIBRARY SERVICE TO CHILDREN
The Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC) is another division of the American Library Association (ALA) dedicated to children’s library services. As a school librarian, resources dedicated to children are essential to providing effective library services at the school level. With free webinars, book lists, and current library news it is a great way for me to stay informed on the latest library information. Of particular interest is the “Professional Tools” collection of resources on a wide variety of topics like intellectual freedom, early literacy and technology.
VIRGINIA ASSOCIATION OF SCHOOL LIBRARIANS
The VAASL is a way to network within the state and regional library community. The VAASL regularly shares updates, news, and resources via their blog to keep me informed as well as holds an annual conference each year. The annual conference is scheduled for November 2-4, 2022 and I hope to attend as professional development opportunities are essential to personal growth within librarianship.
Knowledge Quest is the online and print Journal of the American Association of School Librarians that published peer reviewed articles and supporting articles. With access to reliable sources, Knowledge Quest is a helpful tool to keep me abreast of the latest library research for best practices when serving the school community. Of particular interest is the Standards Based Learning Series (for purchase) that feature topics such as Social and Emotional Learning for Picture Book Readers and Project Based Learning that will be valuable when planning library lessons.
Kirkus Reviews provides professional reviews and recommendations of titles from all genres and subgroups both online and in magazine format. Curated book lists provide guidance on topics and perspectives including diversity in books which will be valuable when curating an inclusive collection for a school library. Kirkus Reviews features a podcast, video interviews and a Twitter feed that allow me to stay informed on the latest books and trends.
We Are Kid Lit Collective is a group of professionals with the goal of creating materials and opportunities to recognize the humanity of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) in youth literature. They have created reliable lists of books that have been selected, discussed and vetted by two or more members. All the books celebrate diversity, inclusivity and intersecting identities that will prove to be an invaluable resource when curating an inclusive collection for a school library.
FUTURE READY PODCAST: LEADING FROM THE LIBRARY
Leading from the Library podcast is hosted by Shannon McClintock Miller, Future Ready Library Spokesperson and features stories and ideas from some of the nation’s top teacher librarians meant to inspire and prompt reflection upon our practice within the topics of diversity, collaboration, empowering students as creators, and so much more! The expansive topics for 21st century librarians covered in this podcast are exciting and those listed barely begin to scratch the surface. Since discovering this podcast, I have also followed Shannon on instagram and joined her Future Ready Librarians Facebook group to remain connected.
The Library Voice is teacher librarian Susan McClintock Miller’s personal blog. Susan has authored several picture books about library skills as well as graphic novels in the Adventures in Makerspace series among other professional books that will be valuable to add to my own personal collection of professional development resources. Her blog also shares websites, book activities and events that can easily be implemented into library lessons for all learning levels. There is much to explore and learn on her blog.
Renovated Learning features resources on how to start or grow a makerspace in your school or library. As a future school librarian, I understand the importance of authentic, hands-on learning and want to make sure I create a makerspace that fosters creativity, collaboration and critical thinking. The resources included here can help ensure that I accomplish that goal with links for planning, funding, activities and more.