Tips and Advice for a New School Librarian

When I first stepped into the role of an elementary librarian, I was brimming with excitement and a hint of nervousness. The previous librarian had left without offering any transition guidance, so I found myself figuring things out on my own. Luckily, I had a wonderful assistant who helped me navigate those early challenges. Today, I’m sharing some tips and advice to help you thrive in your first year as a school librarian.

Top Ten Tips and Advice for a School Librarian

Looking back on my journey, I realized how invaluable certain strategies were in helping me succeed. With that in mind, I’m excited to share some tips and advice that will hopefully make your transition smoother and your first year as a librarian a fantastic experience. Let’s dive into the essential tips and advice every new school librarian should know!

1. Do Not Make Big Changes

A saying that I repeated to myself, especially in the beginning, was, if it works, don’t reinvent the wheel. One of the first things I did was take time to understand the library’s current procedures and traditions. Getting a clear picture of how things are running is essential before making any big changes. I recommend spending time observing how the library operates daily, from book checkouts to storytime sessions. You want to get to know the routines and the traditions that students and staff are accustomed to.

Take notes on areas where you see potential for improvement. Maybe there’s a more efficient way to handle book returns or a new system that could make cataloging easier. However, it’s important to introduce these changes gradually. Making too many adjustments too quickly can lead to confusion and resistance. I suggest starting with small changes and communicating openly with your assistant and the staff. Their input can be incredibly valuable, and involving them in the process helps ensure a smooth transition.

This one is major – make sure to talk to teachers and students to get their perspectives on what works well and what could be improved. This will give you insight, and it will build relationships and show that you value their opinions. Remember, taking the time to understand and respect the existing procedures and traditions thoroughly sets a strong foundation for any improvements you plan to make.

2. Become Familiar with Your Library

Next on my list of tips and advice is to familiarize yourself with every nook and cranny of the library. You first need to locate each section of the library and get to know them well. For instance, is there a separate nonfiction section specifically for younger students? Are there book bins that hold popular titles or special collections?

Pay attention to the details like genre stickers on the books and the signage throughout the library. Understanding these elements can help you guide students more effectively and make the space more user-friendly. Take a stroll through the shelves and make mental notes, or even jot them down, about how things are organized. This knowledge will be incredibly useful when helping your students find what they’re looking for or planning any reorganization.

Then, you want to browse the library catalog extensively. Get a feel for how it’s structured and how easy it is to navigate. This will be a well-used tool in your day-to-day activities, from checking out books to assisting students and teachers in finding resources. As you are making all of these observations, consider the flow of the space. How do you want your students to move through the library? Are there areas that feel crowded or underutilized? Understanding the physical layout will help you create a welcoming and efficient environment.

3. Build Relationships

One of the most rewarding parts of being a librarian is building relationships with both staff and students. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy! Start by reaching out and inviting the staff to come in and meet you. Hosting a casual meet-and-greet with donuts and coffee can be a great icebreaker. It’s a relaxed setting where you can introduce yourself, chat, and start forming those important connections.

Talking with your teachers is crucial. As the new school librarian you want them to know that you are on their side and available to help. Take the time to learn how they perceive the library. Find out what they find positive and what they think could use improvement. These conversations can provide valuable insights and help you understand their needs and expectations. Plus, it shows you’re open to feedback and eager to collaborate.

Make it a point to be seen as friendly and approachable. Make yourself available for questions or a quick chat. Whether it’s helping a student find their next great read or assisting a teacher with resources for their lesson plan, your approachability will go a long way in establishing a supportive and inclusive library environment.

Building these relationships early on will make your job more enjoyable. It will also create a positive and collaborative atmosphere in the library. By being approachable and proactive in connecting with staff and students, you’ll form a community that values and supports the library as a central hub of learning and growth.

4. Practice Library Procedures

A great way to build confidence in your new role is to practice library procedures until they become second nature. Start by practicing how to check books in and out. This hands-on experience will make you familiar with the process and help you handle it efficiently during busy times. To learn more about how to check out library books, explore Tips & Ideas for a Positive Book Checkout.

If your library has a Smartboard or a similar device, practice using it for lessons and presentations. Run through a few mock lessons to get comfortable with the technology and troubleshoot any potential issues. The more prepared you are, the smoother your lessons will go and the less stressed you’ll feel. It’s also a good idea to practice this with your kids too once you start hosting lessons. You can explain to them that when you’re using the Smartboard, you’ll display information on the board and talk about the expectations for them during this time. I know it sounds obvious, but trust me! Anytime to practice procedures and expectations is well spent!

Another way to practice procedures is by setting up a few trial runs of common tasks you’ll encounter daily. For example, practice organizing book displays, navigating the library catalog, or setting up different library activities. These rehearsals will make you confident in handling the day-to-day operations and help you feel more in control.

5. Plan Your Schedule

Planning your schedule is crucial to running a smooth and engaging library program. While your overall schedule might be fixed, it’s important to plan how each library class will be conducted. Here’s a structure that worked well for me:

Start with 5 minutes to welcome students and get them settled. This is a great time to create a warm, inviting atmosphere and set the tone for the session. Next, use 15 to 20 minutes for storytime or the main lesson. This is the core of your class, where you can share exciting stories or teach important concepts.

For younger students, it’s essential to include a brain break or some type of movement activity. Your kiddos can get antsy if they sit too long, so a quick dance, stretch, or interactive game can re-energize them and keep them focused.

Use the remaining time for book checkout and independent reading. This allows your students to explore the library, find books that interest them, and enjoy some quiet reading time. It also allows you to interact with them individually, offering recommendations and assistance as needed.

Remember, these tips and advice on scheduling are just a starting point. Feel free to adjust based on what works best for you and your students. As a new school librarian it may take a little time to find what works best. Be flexible and adjust your schedule as needed. A well-structured plan keeps things running smoothly and helps create a positive and productive library experience for everyone.

6. Adapt Lessons for Different Grade Levels

Adapting lessons for different grades can seem daunting, but I’ve found that using a chunking approach works wonders. This method involves teaching similar concepts across multiple grade levels while adjusting the content to suit the age and understanding of each group.

Start by identifying a core concept that is relevant to various grades. For example, if you’re focusing on library skills, younger students might learn about the basics of book care, while older students can dive into more complex topics like research skills or genre exploration.

By chunking your lessons this way, you simplify your planning process and ensure that all students learn at their appropriate level. For instance, a storytime session about the importance of libraries can be adapted with simpler language and interactive elements for younger kids, while older students might engage in a discussion or a related project.

This approach streamlines your lesson planning and allows you to build on previous knowledge as your students progress through the grades. It creates a cohesive learning experience where concepts are reinforced and expanded upon each year.

These tips and advice on adapting lessons are designed to make your job easier while providing an engaging learning experience for your students. Adjust your content as needed to meet the unique needs of each grade level. You’ll find that this method saves you time while enhancing your teaching effectiveness.

7. Understand the Policies

One of the more important tips and advice I can share with you as a new librarian is to familiarize yourself with district policies. You want to zero in on those related to book challenges and library operations. Understanding these guidelines will help you navigate your role with confidence and ensure you comply with district expectations.

Start by reviewing the policies on book challenges. Knowing the procedures for handling challenges or complaints about certain books is important. If an issue arises, you’ll be prepared to address it professionally and according to district protocols. It’s also a good idea to clearly understand the criteria for book selection and removal to support your decisions with solid reasoning.

Then, you want to get to know the policies governing library operations. This includes everything from circulation rules and overdue book policies to guidelines on technology use and student behavior. Being prepared in these areas will help you run your library smoothly and handle any questions or situations that come your way.

Take some time to connect with your school’s administration and district library coordinator, if available. I recommend reaching out to them because they can provide insights and clarification on any policies you might find confusing. Plus, building these relationships early on can be beneficial for ongoing support and collaboration during future situations.

8. Connect with Peers

You may feel overwhelmed or nervous, but know you are not alone! One of the best pieces of advice I can offer is to connect with other librarians within your district and through online communities. This job can feel quite isolating since we’re often the only librarian in our building. Building a network of peers can make a world of difference.

Start by reaching out to librarians in your district. They can be a fantastic resource for sharing experiences, advice, and even collaborating on projects. Since they have been in the district, they’ll be able to share some of those ins and outs. Don’t hesitate to send an email or set up a coffee meeting to introduce yourself and start forming those valuable connections.

Online communities are another excellent way to connect with fellow librarians. There are numerous forums, social media groups, and professional organizations where librarians share tips, resources, and support. These platforms can be a great source of inspiration and camaraderie, offering a sense of community even when you’re working alone.

Engaging with peers provides emotional support and opens up professional development opportunities. You can learn about new programs, innovative teaching methods, and best practices from others who understand the unique challenges of our role. These tips and advice on connecting with peers are about creating a supportive network you can rely on.

9. Be Flexible

Flexibility is key to success in a school environment. As a librarian, it’s essential to be prepared for anything. Schedules can change unexpectedly, and being able to adapt quickly is crucial.

A way I stay flexible is to have a stash of backup activities ready to go. Keep a collection of worksheets, readers’ theater scripts, or simple centers on hand. These can be lifesavers when you need to fill time or adjust plans on the fly.

Having these activities prepared in advance means you’re always ready to provide a meaningful and engaging experience for your students. Whether a class shows up unannounced or a planned activity falls through, you’ll have various options to keep the students engaged and learning. These tips and advice on being flexible are about maintaining a positive and responsive attitude. Embrace the unpredictability and see it as an opportunity to showcase your quick-thinking and resourcefulness.

10. Take a Breath

Of all my tips and advice, this is my favorite to remember. The first year may be challenging, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. It’s important to take a breath and give yourself grace. You’ll build wonderful relationships with students and staff in your building. Each interaction and situation will add to your growth both personally and professionally.

Watching the joy on a student’s face as they discover a new favorite book or seeing the excitement during storytime is truly fulfilling. These moments are what makes all the hard work worth it. You’ll witness firsthand the incredible impact of putting books into children’s hands and helping to grow a love for reading that can last a lifetime.

As you navigate the ups and downs, remind yourself to pause and breathe. Celebrate your successes, learn from your challenges, and cherish the connections you make along the way. By taking a moment to breathe and reflect, you’ll find motivation and joy in your work. This will make your first year as a librarian not just a learning experience but a truly unforgettable and enriching one.

Becoming a New School Librarian Who Thrives

Starting your career as a new school librarian is both exciting and daunting. With the right approach and mindset, you can transform challenges into opportunities and create a welcoming library environment. Every step you take toward understanding, planning, and connecting will make a difference.

Reflecting on my own experiences, I can confidently say that the first year, while filled with learning curves, is incredibly rewarding. You’ll witness the magic of your students discovering new worlds within the pages of books and build lasting relationships with staff and students alike. Stay flexible, don’t forget to take a breath, and appreciate the impact you’re making.

By following these tips and advice, you’ll not only survive your first year but thrive! You’ll create a library that is a hub of excitement, learning, and growth for everyone in your school community. Here’s to an amazing first year as a school librarian!

Make sure you check out my Librarian Survival Kits They are full of products that will help you get started and make your transition to a school librarian smoother.

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Tips and Advice for a New School Librarian