I found this week's readings particularly interesting, especially after our visit to the school library in Plymouth last week: Rachel seems like she would be quite the advocate in the library world. She is clearly committed to helping her students achieve their goals (computer club, etc.) and speaking up for disadvantaged or marginalized students (book fair). Her community outreach and willingness to bring activities into the library seems perfect for an elevator speech!
The readings by Coatney and Fontichiaro/Mardis discuss different strategies for promoting library services. Considering the budget issues and job scarcity for qualified librarians, it is useful to understand ways to let the greatness of libraries be known outside the library world. In terms of having an elevator speech, it seems critical to be prepared at all times to engage interested parties in library activities and accomplishments. I appreciated the sample speech provided because it demonstrated how to talk up the library (and the library staff) in a natural, not boastful, way. The content of the speech itself also provided some excellent ideas for how libraries can stay relevant to their users' needs.
Finally, looking at the various AASL resources allowed me to explore some practical methods of advocating for the library. The AASL pages neatly categorize different types of advocacy and include links to examples for In light of all this advocacy talk, I still wonder why librarians are always in the position of having to advertise so much the importance of what they do. If it's so crucial, why can't administrators, teachers and others immediately appreciate the value without being told so? And I do think library services are critical to success in the school environment; however, I am curious why the importance of these services is not more self-evident. Perhaps it is related to old-school librarian stereotypes (laminating, etc.)? If the true value of a good school librarian was understood by more, petitions on behalf of the school library would probably not be needed. Ultimately, I think the best tool for advocacy is being a great librarian.
That's true - the advocacy readings and visiting Rachel did go nicely together. I was also very impressed with Rachel's willingness to accomodate all sorts of student requests for clubs and after-school activities.
ReplyDeleteI also wonder about always having to advertise our importance. Perhaps it's because we're more of a service than a core academic area? I agree that the best tool for advocacy is a great librarian!
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