4.1 Networking With the Library Community

Candidates demonstrate the ability to establish connections with other libraries and to strengthen cooperation among library colleagues for resource sharing, networking, and facilitating access to information. Candidates participate and collaborate as members of a social and intellectual network of learners.
PictureScreenshot of two entries in my blog
Description
This blog was written with the busy librarian in mind. It includes reviews and links to other useful blogs, reviews on Web 2.0 tools, and information on cyberbullying.

Analysis
A media specialist’s job can be very isolating. Most schools only have one librarian, making it difficult for sharing to take place. How do you find out the latest trends in school libraries? My blog is the best solution to this problem because it highlights important resources and topics relevant to busy librarians everywhere. Plus, it is easy to access right from your couch at home or while you are in the waiting room at the doctor’s office. This contribution to my professional community also served to help me find a variety of resources that I use myself in my own library.
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​Reflection
I have found that media specialists are among the most generous and helpful people on the planet. They never hesitate to share their ideas and resources. One of my favorite blogs is written by a former media specialist who has shared so many amazing ideas over the years. I emailed her to ask a question about one of her lessons, and she sent me back a three-page email with all the details I asked for and more. This is the kind of contribution I hope to be able to make with my own blog and am looking forward to spending time updating it.

​​4.2 Efficient & Ethical Information Seeking Behavior

Candidates model a strong commitment to the profession by participating in professional growth and leadership opportunities through membership in library associations, attendance at professional conferences, reading professional publications, and exploring Internet resources. Candidates plan for ongoing professional growth.
PictureObjective of my PDP and list of professional memberships
​Description
This leadership analysis emphasizes my commitment to professional growth and leadership. I am a member of many library associations, attend conferences, and subscribe to library publications. It also shows my plan for learning more about a new trend in school libraries called “Learning Commons.”

Analysis
The job of a media specialist is constantly evolving. This artifact shows my dedication to learning and growing in my profession. My memberships in professional organizations keep me in touch with the latest trends in school librarianship, as does my attendance at nationwide and local conferences. In my perusal of the online resource eSchoolNews.com, I came across the idea of a Learning Commons. In this leadership analysis, I planned for how I would learn more about it, so I could eventually implement it in my own library space.

​Reflection
After completing this leadership analysis, I felt a great sense of accomplishment. Even before I even had a position in a school library, I was well on my way to becoming a well-rounded professional in this field. As I reflected on my work, I realized even more than before, that I was made to be a media specialist. I get so excited when I sign up for conferences and pick up my latest issue of School Library Journal, because nothing makes me happier than when I am learning new things. ​

​​4.3 Leadership

Candidates are able to articulate the role and relationship of the school library program's impact on student academic achievement within the context of current educational initiatives. Utilizing evidence-based practice and information from education and library research, candidates communicate ways in which the library program can enhance school improvement efforts.
PictureGoals for media program improvement
Description
I used A Planning Guide for Empowering Learners School Library Program Assessment Rubric to evaluate a middle school library program. This rubric helped me assess several components including collaboration, reading, literacy, inquiry, assessment for learning, and leadership. I developed a plan of action for improving this school library program based on my analysis of the results.
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Analysis
Upon completing my analysis, I found that a few areas had opportunities for improvement. First, I recommended that the media specialist attend grade level meetings, so that she can stay informed. In a flexible schedule, it should not be too difficult to make time to attend these meetings, where she will learn important information about the current topics being covered as well as current instructional strategies being used. My second recommendation was for the media specialist to strive for more collaboration that includes reading comprehension strategies. The media specialist has access to a variety of reading materials and can help support teachers in accessing them. Finally, I recommended that the media specialist become more involved in the assessment of students at her school. This increased level of collaboration can help improve student achievement.
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​Reflection
When I decided to become a media specialist, I based my decision on my love of reading and learning. I imagined myself helping kids find books they love and teaching them how to research. I never knew all the different roles of a media specialist or how much impact we have on the success of the school. It was rather daunting to examine this rubric, and I am glad it was one of my first assignments as a new school librarianship student. It was an eye-opener, but it also made me so much more excited about this job choice.  Media specialists truly can have a significant impact on their school’s achievement. ​

4.4 Advocacy

Candidates identify stakeholders within and outside the school community who impact the school library program. Candidates develop a plan to advocate for school library and information programs, resources, and services.
PictureFlier detailing the reasons to support a library program at MVMPCS
Description
My Montessori charter school in Frederick Maryland had a very small, old, and disorganized library. I created this plan to help advocate for funding to improve upon the collection and implement a full library media program.
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Analysis
As a charter school, our library was made up of mostly donated books and books purchased with school book fair funds. The books were chosen randomly without selection criteria, and there was no media specialist to ensure that the books being placed in our library met the needs of our school. We clearly needed an advocate for a library program, and I came up with a solid plan that involved almost everyone in our community. My plan could have benefited from the inclusion of outside sponsors in the community to contribute to our fundraising efforts.​
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​Reflection
I enjoyed working on this advocacy plan because I felt it had the potential to be one of my most important contributions to our school. I had read all the studies indicating the importance of a strong library program and knew the frustrations of being a teacher without this extremely valuable resource. I discussed my plan at length with my administrator, and she was enlightened by how much a school library program can contribute to the success of a school. I believe she would have allowed me to carry this plan out had I stayed at that school another year. My next crusade will be at my current school, where I will work to find ways to raise money for increasing our access to technology.​