The School Library Media Specialist: We don’t just shelve books anymore.

1. The School Library Media Specialist: We don’t just shelve books anymore. Katie Henry Professional Discussion on Advocacy MEDT 8464

2. Teacher • I teach students to find books in their reading level without discouraging them to pick a book of interest to them. • I teach them research skills they need to find appropriate information for their paper.

3. Sales Person • I not only sell children on the idea of books, I sell them actual books through the book fair twice a year. • I run Books are Fun and Trinity Books for teachers in the building to get a discount on books.

4. Motivator / Encourager • I motivate students to succeed and to continue reading throughout their lives. • I encourage teachers to continue the wonderful jobs they are doing in the classroom.

5. Entertainer • I entertain at least 5 groups of children a day by reading them stories and getting them interested in reading. • I put on a show for each book, so children want to check it out from the library and take it home to share with their families.

6. Advertiser • I put out advertisements around the building about new books coming in. • I advertise new books to students looking for something different to read. • I send out flyers to teachers about the new books we have in that fit into what they teach.

7. Resource of Information • I answer questions all day along about what is wrong with teacher computers, computer programs, printers, etc. • I show students where they can find safe, student friendly information on the internet. • I can tell you what section of the library to search in if you tell me the topic of what you’re looking for.

8. Collaborator • I work with teachers daily to figure out how I can help them teach lessons. • We plan together to share standards and lessons to integrate technology.

9. Technology Wiz • I can fix a computer, printer, LCD projector, or AverKey to fit your needs. • I run the computer lab. • I am on the phone with county office technology daily to help fix any problems that go above and beyond what I’m allowed to do. • I run the technology committee to make sure the school is informed of all possible technology changes in the county.

10. Student • I am constantly learning new “tricks to the trade” • I attend monthly county meetings • I continue my education through earning more degrees • I attend annual conferences for Media Specialists

11. Key to Student Achievement • I teach research skills • I collaborate with teachers • I help students understand the standards they’re trying to learn • I am a key to helping students do well on the CRCT.

12. Librarian • I am constantly checking books in and out • I reshelf books for students to find. • I know call numbers like the back of my hand.

13. Director • I run the morning announcements, and make sure they make it on the air each morning so everyone in the school is informed of what is going on. • I direct a group of 8 children to give them the experience of being a newscaster and show them the process it takes to get them “on the air”

14. Catch All • I run a myriad of clubs and committees to help the school run. • I plan special events and assemblies for the school. • I help administer the CRCT to small groups of students. • I deliver laminating for teachers who have left items to be laminated in the Media Center.

15. I wear many hats during the day, and I love them all!