General Library FAQs
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How do you become a librarian?
To become a librarian, you need to get a Master of Library and/or Information Science.
In the State of Texas, school librarians need to have been a teacher for 2+ years, and either:- a Master of Library and/or Information Science & TEA Librarian certification; or
- a Master in anything, completion of a library certification program, & TEA Librarian certification.
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Importance of Library Aides
- Library aides free up librarians to do all the "behind the scenes" things you don't know librarians do.
- Without a library aide, the librarian will have to do:
- shelve library items
- basic customer service (via phone and in-person)
- check in/out
- repair damaged books
- prepare new books, etc.
Imagine your principal doing everything he does without a secretary. This is a similar situation.
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Librarians and Test Scores Link
Schools without certified librarians score lower on standardized tests. (Article)
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What do school librarians do all day?
Even the smallest public library, there are typically at least 2 librarians (1 to work on technical services and 1 to work on public services) as well as a few library aides (the people who generally shelve and check out books). A school librarian has to do all of these:
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- Technical Services
- Evaluating and ordering materials
- Evaluating needs to use budget in best manner
- Removing outdated, superseded, or damaged materials
- Cataloging new materials (to make it easier to search)
- Curate digital resources (for public use)
- Design (and order for) flexible spaces to promote both individual and collaborative use
- Public Services
- Researching and answering online (and in-person) questions
- Educating patrons on items such as:
- research: databases, critical thinking, and identifying fake news
- technology: from basic skills to digital tools
- copyright: fair use & violations
- Provide access to materials
- Promote literacy and reading
- School-specific Services
- Collaborate with teachers to build robust lesson plans
- Provides professional development for teachers
- Individual assistance for students, as needed
- Technical Services
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On Librarianship
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School Library Information
FBISD Libraries
Future Ready Librarians Framework
TEA School LibrariesAmerican Library Association Information
(ALA-Accreditation is currently the best way to become a different type of librarian)
Become a Librarian
Database for ALA-Accredited Universities