Leadership remains an elusive, yet critical, component of a program's effectiveness. While most would suggest that leadership is easily recognized, this too often means that "managers" are simply supporting people's particular interests and priorities. There are many theories and models of leadership. Most people have probably personally witnessed…

Lists the foundational elements needed for an effective library media program and introduces the key components of effective collaboration with classroom teachers, providing proven strategies for its implementation. Suggests teacher-librarians need to take the initiative in collaboration and discusses collaboration as a predictor of student…

This brief article responds to the research finding that effective school libraries have clear roles focused on student achievement. Based on recent research findings, Ross Todd, Carol Kuhlthau and an Ohio team concluded that eight characteristics can be used to place a stronger emphasis on learning. The characteristics include: (1) Resource…

This overview of school librarianship in Canada focuses on the aim of the school library program, the school librarian's role as teacher-librarian, guidelines and standards for effective service, and district support services. A list of selected readings on these issues is provided. (EJS)

In study after study, three priorities appear to make a difference to the principal's view of the teacher-librarian. First, teacher-librarians who collaborate with classroom colleagues make a difference to literacy and student achievement; those who don't, don't. Second, teacher librarians who perform leadership roles in the school and in the…

Reports on three research studies that indicate that exemplary teacher-librarians impact student achievement through leadership, cooperative program planning and team teaching, knowledge of information and technology, student access and assistance, and administrative support. (Author/LRW)

Discusses the guidelines for school library media programs in "Information Power" and explains the new Information Literacy Standards for Student Learning. Topics include independent learning, social responsibility, performance indicators, and the roles of the library media specialist. (LRW)

This article examines ways in which the profession of teacher-librarianship can be strengthened and enhanced and offers numerous suggestions, including role clarification, strong commitment by teachers and teacher-librarians to cooperative program planning and teaching, a framework for flexible scheduling, and a school-based continuum of research…

This essay on means by which the profession of teacher-librarianship might be strengthened, and even enhanced, highlights the mission statement and resource center programs, role of the teacher-librarian, cooperative program planning and teaching, research and study skill development, education for school librarianship, and program advocacy. (EJS)

In collaboration with teachers, teacher librarians have a positive impact on student achievement in content areas, information literacy, and reading motivation and ability. Current professional issues of teacher librarians include role clarification, appropriate preservice education, standards for student information literacy, articulation of…

Although the research in teacher-librarianship provides evidence for decision-making in the design of appropriate education programs for teacher-librarians and effective school resource centers, the research base is not necessarily reflected in programs of education for teacher-librarians. This paper provides a definition of the terms…

Identifies issues that need to be addressed when planning combined school and public libraries. The importance of defining the role of the libraries and involving all participants in the planning process is stressed, and considerations relating to personnel selection, collection development, funding, and evaluation are discussed. (CLB)

Comments on the following research finding: teacher-librarians who understand the search process, work with classroom colleagues to integrate the process in instruction, and intervene early in student support, more effectively guarantee student success and academic achievement than those who don't. (PEN)

Describes the West Vancouver (British Columbia) School Board's goals related to the appropriate and effective use of information technology as both a school and a community resource. Highlights include social issues, learning issues, professional and personal competencies for teacher-librarians, integration of information delivery systems, and a…

Reviews research relating to information professionals in schools, including library media specialists and teacher librarians. Topics include future research needs, student achievement, the role of teacher librarians, literature-based reading programs, home schooling, effects of gender, the role of school principals, funding, public library…