(g) Personnel

I have observed teacher-librarian lessons at both primary and secondary levels. In lower primary they generally involve the Librarian reading a story then encouraging the children to borrow books and reminding them of borrowing procedures. In upper primary they begin to do tasks designed to get them to learn about finding resources and understanding the systems that make the library operate. In secondary school the initial library lessons are designed to familiarise the new students with the library and all that it has to offer. This naturally builds on the generic knowledge of libraries that students already possess. The librarian is also involved in teaching students how to use particular computer-based applications such as Photo Story, Power Point and web page design. They also teach the students how to access and use online databases, how to use the internet as a research tool efficiently and proper referencing procedures. Teachers often approach the librarians for assistance with locating resources, designing pathfinders and to discuss technology and information elements of their curriculum. I believe that my teaching background has prepared me very well for this aspect of the librarian’s role. I am naturally interested in technological applications and have a good understanding of many of those that are typically used in school environments. I am always looking to improve and extend my knowledge in this area so am an enthusiastic student of new technologies and eager to assist teachers to implement their use in the curriculum.

I particularly like how working in a library is team oriented. It doesn’t feel as isolated as regular classroom teaching. At Brigidine, and I’m sure this is the case in many libraries; the lines between job delineations are quite blurred. This has been of particular benefit to me as I have felt that I’ve learnt about library functions from the ground up and this has built a fuller understanding of the various roles of the library staff. It has also enabled me to be of assistance to the various volunteers who assist in the library from time to time.

Area Identified for further Development: Facilitating teacher-librarian oriented lessons