A Whole New World!

1.  How can a High School library be so different from a Middle School library?
     Man, oh man, it is SO different!  I began going to the High School library on January 26.  I was nervous at first because for all purposes I am more inclined to Elementary schools.  However, I can honestly say that I have really enjoyed my time here so far!  After talking to Ms. Becky, who has previously been a Middle School librarian, she explained how different it really is.  Ms. Becky defined her responsibilities in both schools.

Middle School:
* Special Activity period
* Reinforcing classroom standards
* Add on responsibilities such as RTI Groups, yearbook, and ISS.

High School:
* Classes accompanied by teachers unless otherwise specified.
* Lessons collaborated with teachers
* Tech responsibilities
* Senior sponsor
* Graduation coordinator

    After reviewing all of these responsibilities, I asked Ms. Becky which job she liked better, and she replied that she loved High School!



2.  Would I consider being a High School librarian?
     I never thought I would say this, but I would actually consider taking a High School library position.  After reviewing all of the responsibilities that Ms. Becky listed from question 1 and actually getting to experience High School, I can say that I like the atmosphere, the responsibilities, and the staff at this High School.




3.  Has the role of librarian become more about technology than books?

   The answer to this question is yes!  Ms. Becky said that she has been a librarian for 8 years now, and even in that time period she has seen a shift in focus in her job.  Her schedule is left flexible so that she can assist with technology as well as incorporate technology in her lessons.  She is responsible for the 34 computers in her library as well as 25 laptops that can be checked out by teachers for student use.  She also gets many emails and phone calls from teachers within in the building when they are having technology issues.

This field experience has definitely been eye opening.  As of right now, I am a K-8 librarian.  I have found that 7th and 8th grade do not see library as a learning experience, at least not the ones at my school.  They see library as an activity period where they "have to work."  This usually means more behavior issues since they know that other students are at computer or PE during their activity period.  Ms. Becky on the other hand does not have this issue.  Library is not considered an "activity period."  It is used in collaboration with teachers as part of instruction.