LIBRARY-MEDIA SPECIALIST

DEFINITION

Under general supervision, performs planning, organizing, and coordinating library and media services for all schools; develops, promotes and coordinates the use of instructional materials and equipment and supervises the operation of the library/media center, working closely with students and staff to provide the variety and range of materials and resources which will enrich the curriculum; has a high level of understanding about technology and its use in the classroom and related situations; stimulates growth and challenges students in their research, study, and lifelong learning; and performs other related work as assigned.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following:

• Plan and organize library and media services for schools;
• Develop and promote optimum use of library and media services through comprehensive resources and services with particular emphasis an the use of technology;
• Assist teachers in the selection of books, media and other instructional materials;
• Keep staff informed of materials, activities and services of the library/media center;
• Serve as a resource person in planning units, assignments and activities related to the library/media center;
• Help students to develop reference and study skills;
• Team with teachers on the staff in teaching skills, study skills, and library skills;
• Assist in preparation of annual budget recommendations for libraries and media services; monitor and control expenditures; recommend the purchase of supplies, equipment and materials;
• Research, preview, evaluate and select media materials in accordance with State curricular frameworks, legislative mandates, children's interests and the needs of the collection;
• Coordinate the selection and licensing process of classroom curriculum materials (books, videos, distance learning, and other technologies) for schools;
• Recommend and prepare list of materials for Board adoptions;
• Work to interrelate all aspects of media with educational technology applications;
• Provide technical expertise, recommendations and guidance to teachers, administrators, and staff regarding library/media services and resources;
• Assure the proper organization and maintenance of applicable library/media materials; oversee classification and cataloging activities;
• Provide educational experiences for students in the area of library/media resources;
• Maintain an attractive, inviting environment in the library/media center;
• Train and supervise library/media instructional assistants, and volunteers in the performance of their duties;
• Keep abreast of current developments and research in library/media through professional associations, study and research;
• Support the reading program through materials, activities diagnostic-prescriptive bank and working with students;
• Cooperate in school-wide supervision of students during out-of-classroom activities;
• Participate in faculty and/or District committees and the sponsorship of student activities;
• Assure the preparation and maintenance of comprehensive records and reports related to budget, circulation, acquisitions and personnel.
• Develop grant proposals for programs, resources and materials; monitor and evaluate grants received; and work with teachers and staff to implement grant requirements.

QUALIFICATIONS GUIDE

Education and

Experience:

• student teaching, internship, or full-time teaching experience;
• strong familiarity with the California Frameworks;
• experience conducting staff development;
• demonstrated use of technology as a classroom instructional tool;
• familiarity with a variety of productivity and educational software;
• commitment to learn new software as it becomes available.

Licenses and Other Requirements:

• possession of a valid California Teaching Credential;
• possession of a Library Media Teacher Services Credential;
• possession of a valid California Drivers License;
• reliable transportation for travel to schools during the work day.

Personal Qualities:

• Appearance, grooming and personality which establish a desirable example for students;
• Effective time management skills;
• Ability to meet District standards for physical and mental health;
• Above-average recommendations from student teaching supervisors and/or other professionals who have observed the characteristics, scholastic attainment and classroom performance of the individual.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.

The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee occasionally works in outside weather conditions.