As a school librarian, I will use all of my abilities to inspire, instruct, and lead my students to read for both enlightenment and enjoyment. My experiences as a classroom educator and the excellent foundation in Library and Information Science I have received from the University of South Carolina have prepared me to be a leader and collaborative partner in the school learning commons.
Librarians are called to uphold the ethical principles of our profession, including high levels of service to all patrons, protecting against censorship and upholding students’ rights of intellectual freedom and privacy, and respecting and upholding intellectual property law with regards to copyright and fair use of materials. I will do my utmost to fulfill the expectations of my profession with regards to my professional conduct by being fair, impartial, and withholding any personal beliefs that would limit my ability to carry out these responsibilities.
A school librarian’s primary goal is to support every student’s learning and the school’s educational mission and standards. I plan to accomplish this by becoming familiar with all aspects of the curriculum, the school community, and the characteristics and needs of my students. As a collaborative partner with my teacher peers, I plan to work side-by-side to support their instruction and share the responsibility for learning outcomes. I will take the initiative to forge relationships built on trust and mutual respect that will foster strong partnerships.
I will utilize these peer relationships, understanding of students, and knowledge of the curriculum to inform the development and maintenance of the library collection. I believe that books provide a unique experience to youth as both mirrors and windows to the world. In keeping with that belief, I will select materials that reflect students’ own experiences as well as expand their horizons. In keeping with the ethical standards of librarianship, I will use my skills to select high-quality materials representing diversity and equity. I will creatively and actively advocate for reading these materials through library displays, book sharing, and events.
As a leader in information and digital literacy in the school community, I will provide instruction, materials, and opportunities to access and use information in effective and ethical ways by developing the appropriate instruction based on the specific needs of the school community. In our 21st century digital world, these skills are more important than ever for all of us.
This vision statement reflects my beliefs, priorities, and intentions as I begin my career as a school librarian. My focus will be on supporting the educational achievement of my school community through upholding the high standards of my profession.