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What does a School Librarian do?

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Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

A school librarian helps students find information and teaches them how to use library resources.

School Librarian job duties include:

  • Manage the school library and all its resources
  • Create and enforce policies to ensure the library runs smoothly
  • Train and supervise library staff and volunteers
  • Select, acquire and catalog books, magazines, newspapers, audio-visual materials and other resources
  • Plan and implement library programs and events
  • Work with teachers and administrators to support the curriculum and meet the information needs of students
  • Promote reading and literature appreciation among students
  • Keep up to date with new technologies and developments in the library field
  • Prepare reports and budget proposals
  • Perform reference and research services for students, teachers and administrators

School Librarian Job Requirements

School librarians typically need a master’s degree in library science. Some states require school librarians to be licensed teachers as well. Many school librarians have several years of experience working in libraries before they become a school librarian.

School Librarian Skills

  • Patience
  • Flexibility
  • Creativity
  • Organization
  • Communication
  • Interpersonal
  • Leadership
  • Problem solving
  • Decision making
  • Time management
  • Stress management

Related: Top School Librarian Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a School Librarian

There are a few steps to becoming a school librarian. Firstly, one must obtain a bachelor's degree in library science from an accredited institution. Secondly, one must pass the required exams to become certified. Lastly, one must have experience working in a library.

The first step to becoming a school librarian is to obtain a bachelor's degree in library science from an accredited institution. A bachelor's degree in library science will provide you with the necessary skills and knowledge to work as a librarian. In order to be eligible for certification, you must also complete an internship or practicum in a library.

The second step to becoming a school librarian is to pass the required exams to become certified. To become certified, you must pass the American Library Association's (ALA) Certification Examination for School Librarianship. The ALA Certification Examination for School Librarianship is a two-part exam that tests your knowledge of library science and your ability to apply it to the real world.

The third and final step to becoming a school librarian is to have experience working in a library. Many school districts require that candidates for school librarian positions have at least two years of experience working in a library. This experience can be gained through volunteering, working as a library assistant, or working in another capacity in the library field.

Related: School Librarian Resume Example

Related: School Librarian Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

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Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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