Nuts & Bolts

Nuts & Bolts

For New Elementary Teacher-Librarians

Where to begin?Which way to go?

Some key areas to consider:• Set-up Procedures• Facilities• Aligning with Your School Plan• Creating the Buzz• Professional Development

The Game of Setting UpRules

Decide on rules to be followed in the library (i.e. no food, # of books allowed per students…)Establish rules with each class and staff.

RoutinesDecide how you would like the space and resources to be used (i.e. chairs tucked in, classes lined up waiting to be invited in…)

Patron CardsOrganize patron cards into classrooms by teacher or class number. You can use binders, recipe holders, Bristol board with pockets…

SignageClearly label shelves. Use a label maker, icons for primary students, objects, hanging signs, end stack signs… Know when to stop.

DisplaysSelect books for displays based on themes (beginning of school, anti-bullying) Use both fiction and non-fiction. Display only appealing titles!

OrientationCreate or adapt a scavenger hunt or orientation for all your students. Introduce them to the various areas of their library.

Shelf MarkersKeep your sanity, employ a system for browsing that won’t have you shelving for days.

ComputersCheck to make sure they are all there, plugged in and operating. p.s. verify which printer they are connected to.

Circulation SystemGet acquainted with your circ. system. Attend in-servicing and take some time to explore.

Facilities:

Some key points to be aware of…• Accessibility• Sightlines• Defined areas• Hazards

Accessibility: Equitable access for all

• Consider the height of shelving. Most are adjustable.You can use the upper most shelves for display purposes and contain your collection to the lower shelves.

• General rule of thumb: the younger the students the lower the shelves

• When placing bookcases or other furniture leave 3-4 ft for aisles. This will aid in traffic flow and give students/staff in wheelchairs or walkers clear access.

Sightlines

• For safety and accountability you must be able to see all parts of your library at all times.

• Consider: convex mirrors, lower bookcases, reconfiguring your furniture, spinners with Plexiglas sides, removing clutter, location of circ desk and reading chair…

Defined Areas

• Create distinct areas with specific uses in mind– Reading for pleasure– Large space for whole class groupings– Tables– Computers

Hazards

• Be aware of Health and Safety requirements– Fire hazards – Computer cords– Plants– Inappropriate furniture

Aligning with Your School Plan

• Know your:– School Improvement Plan– Literacy Needs– Equity Initiatives– ESL Needs– Social Initiatives– Curricular Foci

Creating the Buzz:Make your Library a Happening Place!

• Drama• Contests• Breakfast/ Teas• Family Nights• Extended Hours• Trivia• School-wide Reading

• Book Fairs• Book Clubs• Announcements• Author Visits• Highlights for staff

meetings• Newsletter

Professional Development

• Prepare:– Annual Report– Long Range Plans– Budget– Gap Analysis/Collection Development