Lesson Two: Expectations of the Teacher Librarian

Of the expectations mentioned in the lesson, as well as in Ann Riedling's text, all are extremely important and task worthy of the TL. It reminds me of a tugboat pulling a barge, knowledge and ability to be a successful TL will take much time and effort.
Firstly, knowing your collection is dependent on your input to selecting the resources, and/or taking time to see what is already there. Is this a reasonable task request? Well, it has to be, otherwise you will be of little help to those asking when it is needed. This also ties into the third skill of selecting, organizing and evaluating those resources for each individual problem/inquiry. A TL who has taken the time to get to know their resources well, (where to find them, how to use them, know what benefit they will have) will be more successful and also save time in the long run. Also,  I believe that a competent TL (who has been hired for the job) will have the ability to communicate effectively and efficiently, although both will continue to improve with experience.
As for the research process and effective qualities that are inherent in research, one hopes to recognize and understand them more and more. I know I am beginning as "new blood" to the profession, but already I have learned about several new methods to approach research problems, three in particular mentioned in the chapter; Information Seeking, Big 6, and Research Process. As well, I have recognized the necessary  skills; to "access, comprehend, use and evaluate" (p.6) information.
Patience and positivity, I believe are characteristics of the individual, that are developed not only as a TL, but for me, as a new mother, a TOC searching for work, and as an adult returning to school. These attributes improve with familiarity and passion for what you are doing. But also, they can disappear at the drop of a hat. Try to avoid dropping the hat! Stay current with materials and resources, keep in touch with the support system surrounding you, and get sleep and personal time to refresh!
Finally, I hope one enters the field of TL, in order to share their knowledge and eagerness to apply these skills. Of course this is a reasonable task. It will be a struggle to maintain this desire, as the TL is burdened with new technologies and resources, budget cuts,  and challenging students and co-workers. I think the more one actively participates in the research process, the more knowledge and eagerness they will gain.

Module one- Lesson one Informations Literacy and Reference Services in Schools

I had several thoughts to ponder, since receiving my textbook yesterday. There are alot of emails to keep up with, and its a bit of a scrabble for me to figure out what needs to be done! (he he!) What a coincidence that the topic we have begun with is Reference Service. I need a library media specialist to help me out!

So what is Reference Service? Answer the query, create a term and give appropriate resources. Obviously a very skilled technique when there are so many types and levels of query. I did appreciate the comment about using the maximum number of resources, whether found in books, from people or on the internet. It leads me to believe you can find good sources in many places. Also it was made evident that the specialist must have other valuable skills, such as knowing their collection well, being able to converse with others in an efficient and effective manner, and having competence in what they select and deem as valuable information.
How important it will continue to be, to teach students and inquiring minds how to find information themselves. So much information and so little time for most, guidance reference services should be something taught in schools as a regular class, and even better, offered as a community service class for those interested. All of our lives, we search for information, regardless of our level of education or position.  Information is a necessity.
When does the library teach more that just about "its collection"? When students are using the internet, talking to specialists, searching journals, articles and excerpts outside of their schools, are we teaching them how to find answers in "real life"? It hits the mark when Ann mentions how specialists with regard to reference work and the education of today's students (are) teaching life long learning skills. (p5)
I am looking forward to what has to be said in the text and in discussions, about the processes available to help teach this skill.

The Start Line

Composing my first ever blog, while tandem feeding, this could be interesting...
So I will start off with the recommendations of "What I Know.  How can I go wrong??
Currently, as a teacher on call with some experience filling in for librarians, and my ten years experience at the middle school level, I have a general, shall we call it, "illusion" of the librarian's position. My hopes in completing this diploma are that I may one day contribute to the overall importance of the library in today's school. Create a "Garden of Eden" of sorts, where there is something beautiful and inspiring for everyone; a gathering place, a creative space, a haven for some, an enrichment for others.
I realize that there is much to learn about the intricacies of administrating, organizing and running a successful library and program. I also appreciate that much time, team effort and work is necessary.
So here I am, at the beginning.