Duties and Responsibilities

Librarians keep current on resources and literature, and select publications for the
library's collection. They require a knowledgeable command of numerous
information sources to select appropriate material for a library. A librarian
categorizes, prepares, and catalogs these materials. Librarians also recommend
material, and help individuals find the information that they need. They analyze and
organize collections by subject. They educate individuals on how to use the library
systems to find the information they need. Librarians may also conduct special
programs or classes. Other duties include participation in grant writing and
fundraising. Librarians can specialize in:
User Services: User services librarians help individuals find and use library
materials and resources.
Technical Services: Technical services librarians work behind the scenes, obtaining
and classifying resources for the library. Some might work with or develop computer
information storage and retrieval systems.
Administration Services: Librarians in administrative services oversee the
management of the library.
Special Libraries: Government agencies, museums, law firms, corporations, and
professional organizations often maintain their own libraries. Librarians at special
libraries collect, analyze, and help others use information specific to the
organization.
Mandate

To offer on a free scholarship basis a secondary course with special emphasis on

subjects pertaining to the sciences with the end in view of preparing its students for
a science career (Sec. 2, RA 3661)
Mission

Operating under one system of governance and management, PSHS provides

scholarship in secondary education to Filipino students with high aptitude in Science
& Mathematics; prepares its students for careers in science and technology; and to
attain a critical mass of professionals and leaders in science and technology
towards nation building.
Vision

Philippine Science High School Scholar is the countrys leading science high school
that prepares its scholars to be world-class Filipino scientists who are dedicated to
nation building.
Core Values

The PSHS System adheres to the following core values:

Pursuit of TRUTH;
Passion for EXCELLENCE; and
Commitment to SERVICE.
The PSHS, operating under one System of Governance and Management, provides scholarships to students with high aptitude in
science and mathematics.

The library is one of the most important sources of information in the education
system and the librarian plays a key role in this learning environment.
The librarian maintains the book collections of the library as well as other material
including: publications, documents and virtual libraries such as audio/video
materials. Internet access to virtual sources is also available in the library.

All kinds of recorded media are organized by the librarian in an efficient way to
assist patrons in locating and obtaining their choice of materials.
This article provides job interview questions with suggested answers for the job
positions of school librarian, reference librarian and academic librarian.
Librarian Job Interview Questions and Answers
Below are some sample questions that are asked during a Librarian interview:
What are your qualifications for the job of a librarian?
Briefly review your education and any related coursework. Experience, volunteer or
paid, should be mentioned as well. Without arrogance, list your qualities, such as
patience, cheerfulness, desire to be helpful, admiration of the written word and
literature of all types. The interviewer may have time to review any related
paperwork including diplomas, awards, etc. Be prepared and bring them along.
How technically sound are you? Are you comfortable with library
management software?
The computer and the Internet are an integral part of almost every aspect in the
world today. Almost every employee anywhere must use a computer and the
Internet in some way.
List any software/programs you are familiar with that is regularly used by librarians.
What is your role in the educational system as a librarian?
As previously discussed, a librarian has an integral part in the educational system.
The librarian is a resource provider for teachers and students. Teachers and
librarians can jointly plan programs that help increase the students information and
knowledge base..
How can the librarian and teacher work together to enhance students
education?
A teacher and a librarian can prepare special programs from the resources they
have to enhance the educational experience of the student. The teacher will
generally have the goal and method of presenting the lesson; the librarian can
supply the sources and location of information, and how to obtain it in usable form.
Do you think the physical attributes of the library make a difference to
the students?
A library should be spacious with calming, sound-absorbing decor. If the library is
orderly, neat and welcoming, many will come to the library to relax, read and grow
in knowledge.
Another important aspect of the library is ease of obtaining data. When patrons can
come and easily find the material they seek, they will tell their friends and return
repeatedly.

Qualifications:
A masters degree from a program accredited by the American Library
Association (or from a masters level program in library and information studies
accredited or recognized by the appropriate national body of another country) is the
appropriate professional degree for school librarians.
A highly qualified candidate will also hold appropriate state certification as a
school librarian and have completed a teacher preparation program and/or
educational degree.
Reports To: School library supervisor/department head* and building principal
Supervises: Paraprofessional(s) who comprise the school library staff, and, if
applicable, volunteers and student assistants
Job Goals: To ensure that students and staff are effective users of ideas and
information
To empower students to be critical thinkers, enthusiastic readers, skillful
researchers, and ethical users of information
To instill a love of learning in all students and ensure equitable access to
information
To collaborate with classroom teachers and specialists to design and
implement lessons and units of instruction, and assess student learning and
instructional effectiveness
To provide the leadership and expertise necessary to ensure that the school
library program (SLP) is aligned with the mission, goals, and objectives of the school
and the school district, and is an integral component of the learning/instructional
program
ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Leader
As a leader the school librarian creates an environment where collaboration and
creative problem solving thrive. The school librarian is an excellent communicator
who instills enthusiasm in others by making them feel that they are important
members of a team. Strong leaders foster an environment of creativity, innovation,
and openness to new ideas, welcoming and encouraging input from others to create
consensus. They anticipate future obstacles and continually retool to meet
challenges. The school librarian demonstrates his or her role as a visible and active
leader within the school community, an advocate for the SLP, and a professional
member of the school library community by:
serving on decision making teams in the school
taking an active role in school improvement and accreditation activities
benchmarking the SLP to school, state, and national program standards

 sharing expertise by presenting at faculty meetings, parent meetings, and school

board meetings
creating an environment that is conducive to active and participatory learning,
resource-based instructional practices, and collaboration with teaching staff
sharing with the learning community collaboratively developed and up-to-date
district policies concerning such issues as materials selection, circulation,
reconsideration of materials, copyright, privacy, and acceptable use
encouraging the use of instructional technology to engage students and to
improve learning, providing 24/7 access to digital information resources for the
entire learning community
collecting and analyzing data to improve instruction and to demonstrate
correlations between the SLP and student achievement
maintaining active memberships in professional associations
remaining current in professional practices and developments, information
technologies, and educational research applicable to school library programs
advocating for school library programs and the guiding principles of the school
library profession; the school librarian is an active, accessible, and informed
proponent of the school library profession by:
o advocating, communicating, and promoting opportunities to improve the
profession
o maintaining frequent and timely communication to stakeholders through
the school and library website, parent newsletter, e-mail, and other formats, such as
local cable access television, video/audio streaming, and on-demand video/podcasts
o using local, state, national, and international school library data and
research to engage support
o writing articles and submitting regular reports providing evidence of what
the library and school librarian do to prepare learners to be successful in the
twenty-first century
o maintaining an effective public relations program
o demonstrating a commitment to maintaining intellectual freedom
o promoting the ethical use of information
Instructional Partner
As an instructional partner the school librarian works with teachers and other
educators to build and strengthen connections between student information and
research needs, curricular content, learning outcomes, and information resources.
The school librarian demonstrates his or her role as an essential and equal partner
in the instructional process by:
participating in the curriculum development process at both the building and
district level to ensure that the curricula include the full range of literacy skills
(information, media, visual, digital, and technological literacy) necessary to meet
content standards and to develop lifelong learners
collaborating with teachers and students to design and teach engaging inquiry
and learning experiences and assessments that incorporate multiple literacies and
foster critical thinking
participating in the implementation of collaboratively planned learning
experiences by providing group and individual instruction, assessing student
progress, and evaluating activities
joining with teachers and others to plan and implement meaningful experiences
that will promote a love of reading and lifelong learning

 providing and planning professional development opportunities within the school

and district for and with all staff, including other school librarians
Information Specialist
As information specialist, the school librarian provides leadership and expertise in
the selection, acquisition, evaluation, and organization of information resources and
technologies in all formats, as well as expertise in the ethical use of information.
The school librarian ensures equitable access and responsible use of information by:
in accordance with district policy, developing and maintaining a collection of
resources appropriate to the curriculum, the learners, and the teaching styles and
instructional strategies used within the school community
cooperating and networking with other libraries, librarians, and agencies to
provide access to resources outside the school
modeling effective strategies for developing multiple literacies
evaluating, promoting, and using existing and emerging technologies to support
teaching and learning, supplement school resources, connect the school with the
global learning community, communicate with students and teachers, and provide
24/7 access to library services
providing guidance in software and hardware evaluation, and developing
processes for such evaluation
understanding copyright, fair use, and licensing of intellectual property, and
assisting users with their understanding and observance of the same
organizing the collection for maximum and effective use Teacher As a teacher, the
school librarian empowers students to become critical thinkers, enthusiastic
readers, skillful researchers, and ethical users of information. The school librarian
supports students success by guiding them in:
reading for understanding, for exposure to diversity of viewpoints and genres,
and for pleasure
using information for defined and self-defined purposes
building on prior knowledge and constructing new knowledge
embracing the world of information and all its formats
working with peers in successful collaboration for learning
constructively assessing their own learning and the work of their peers
becoming their own best critics
Teacher
As a teacher, the school librarian empowers students to become critical thinkers,
enthusiastic readers, skillful researchers, and ethical users of information. The
school librarian supports students success by guiding them in:
reading for understanding, for exposure to diversity of viewpoints and genres, and
for pleasure
using information for defined and self-defined purposes
building on prior knowledge and constructing new knowledge
embracing the world of information and all its formats
working with peers in successful collaboration for learning
constructively assessing their own learning and the work of their peers
becoming their own best critics
Program Administrator

As program administrator, the school librarian works collaboratively with members

of the learning community to define the policies of the school library program, and
to guide and direct all activities related to it. The school librarian maximizes the
efficiency and effectiveness of the school library program by:
using strategic planning for the continuous improvement of the program
ensuring that school library program goals and objectives are aligned with school
and district long-range strategic plans
using effective management principles, including the supervision of personnel,
resources, and facilities, in developing and implementing program goals and
objectives
using evidence of practice, particularly in terms of learning outcomes, to support
program goals and planning
generating evidence in practice that demonstrates efficacy and relevance of the
school library instructional program
conducting ongoing action research and evaluation that creates data that is used
to inform continuous program improvement
supervising and evaluating support staff, which may include educational
assistants, computer education assistants, volunteers, and student assistants
preparing, justifying, and administering the school library program budget to
support specific program goals
establishing processes and procedures for selection, acquisition, circulation,
resource sharing, etc. that assure appropriate resources are available when needed
creating and maintaining in the school library a teaching and learning
environment that is inviting, safe, flexible, and conducive to student learning
selecting and using effective technological applications for management
purposes
participating in the recruiting, hiring, and training of other professionals,
educational library assistants, students, and volunteer staff
arranging for flexible scheduling of the school libraries to provide student
accessibility to staff and resources at point of need
ensuring equitable physical access to school library facilities by providing barrierfree, universally designed environments.

LIBRARIAN CAREER INFORMATION AND JOB DESCRIPTION

The role of a library is evolving from that of a location where paper records or books can be accessed to one where all kinds of
media are stored, including virtual libraries, CD-ROMs , the internet, as well offering the ability to remotely access numerous other
sources. As a result, librarians, or information professionals, are consolidating traditional librarian responsibilities with duties related
to evolving technology. Librarians help customers locate information and using it proficiently for personal and professional
objectives. Librarians need to be knowledgeable of a vast array of scholarly and public information resources and have to follow
trends and advancements in publishing, computers, and the media as they direct the selection and organization of materials.
Librarians direct staff and develop and design information programs and systems that will be used by the public, making sure that all
information is displayed in a user friendly way.

There are three main areas of work related to a librarian job. Theses three areas are user services, administrative services, and
technical services. Librarians who might specialize in one these areas still will perform additional duties. Librarians specializing user
services, like reference or childrens librarians, assist visitors in locating the material they are looking for. As part of the job such a
librarian must determine the patrons needs and decide what information best fulfills those needs, and then provide assistance in the
search for and acquisition of such material. They might also serve in an instructional way, demonstrating to patrons how to find and
acquire information. For instance, librarians routinely assist patrons in navigating the internet as they look for quality information.
Those working in technical services, like acquisitions and cataloguing, have the responsibility of acquiring and preparing materials
that will be used and typically do not work directly with patrons. Librarians employed in administrative services administer to the
management and planning of libraries. They are also involved in the negotiation of contracts for services, materials, and equipment,
supervision library workers, set budgets, oversee all activities so that the institution is running sufficiently, and carry out publicrelations and fundraising related responsibilities.

Librarians employed by smaller libraries or information centers typically are involved in every aspect of the operations. They brows
reviews, publishers announcements, and catalogues so that their library is stocked with up to date literature and they make
decisions related to buying materials from publishers, wholesalers, and distributors. They also organize materials into the various
subject matters and provide descriptions of the materials so that can be easily located. They also work in a supervisory role,
monitoring assistants, who are in charge of preparing cards, computer records, or other access tools which aid users in locating
materials. In larger libraries, normally librarians become specialists in a select area like acquisitions, cataloguing, bibliography,
reference, special collections, or administration. An important of aspect of making sure the public receives great service is good
teamwork.
Other responsibilities of librarians include compiling lists of books, books, periodicals, articles, and audiovisual materials on
particular subjects; analyzing collections; and recommending materials. They are also involved in colleting and organizing books,
pamphlets, manuscripts, and other materials related to a certain field, like hard to find books, genealogy, or music. They also
oversee programs which offer storytelling for kids, literacy skills and book talks catered for adults. In addition they might conduct
classes, publicize services, offer reference help, write grants, and manage other administrative issues.

The classification of a librarian depends on the kind of library by which they are employed. Types of libraries include public libraries,
school library media centers, and college, university, or other academic libraries or special libraries. Some librarians interact directly
with certain groups, like children, young adults, adults, or disadvantaged people. Librarians working in school library media centers
are commonly know as school media specialists and assist teachers in developing their curriculum, acquiring materials in class
instruction, and at times team teach with other teachers.

Other librarians are employed by information centers or libraries run by a wide body of organizations like government agencies,
museums, professional associations, corporations, law firms, advertising agencies medical centers, hospitals, religious
organizations, and research laboratories. They are responsible for acquiring and arranging an organizations information resources,
which typically contain select subjects related to special interests of the firm. Many key information services, like the preparation of
abstracts and indexes of current periodicals, organization of bibliographies, or analysis of background information and preparation of
reports related to key issues are performed by these special librarians. For instance, a special librarian employed by a company
might provide the sales department with materials and info related to their competitors or new developments and improvements
affecting their market. A medical librarian would likely find information related to new medical treatments, clinical trials, and standard

procedures and provide such materials to health professionals, patients, consumers, and corporations. Government document
librarians, employed by government agencies and depository libraries located in individual states are involved in the preservation of
government publications, records, and important documents form the historical records actions taken and decisions made by the
government.

Quite a few libraries are able to remotely access databases and maintain their own computerized databases. Since automation has
become so common within libraries, it is important that librarians are skilled in database searching. Librarians are responsible for the
development and indexing of databases as well as instructing patrons how to efficiently search through and located needed
reference materials. Many libraries have created consortiums with other libraries utilizing electronic mail. Such relationships enable
users to submit request for needed materials to many different libraries at the same time. The development of the internet is also
creating a wider foundation of accessible materials. Thus librarians need to understand how to utilize all types of resources in the
search for desired materials.

Those skilled in computers and information systems might be employed as automated-systems librarians, involved in the planning
and operation of computer systems, or as information architect librarians, who design information storage and retrieval systems and
develop techniques for the collection, organization, interpretation, and classification of information. These librarians work on
analyzing and planning for information needs that might arise in the future.

An increasing number of librarians are utilizing their information management and research skills in fields beyond libraries, like
database development, reference tool development, information systems, publishing, internet coordination, marketing, web content
management and design, and training of database users. Librarians with entrepreneurial desires might found their own consulting
firm, or work as freelance librarian or information brokers for other corporations, government agencies, or libraries.

The Role of School Librarians in Promoting the Use of Educational

Technologies
School librarians perform an integral role in promoting the effective use of
educational technologies in their schools. About School Librarians School librarians
are professionals who hold teaching degrees, as well as librarian certification.
School librarians may also be referred to as teacher-librarians or library media
specialists.
School librarians are in unique positions within their schools because they:
collaborate with all teachers in the building across grade levels and subject
disciplines
. work with all students throughout the students academic careers.
are instructional leaders in their schools who serve on curriculum, school
improvement, and planning committees.
frequently provide professional development to their colleagues in areas
related to instructional and technology resources.
teach a wide range of local, state, and national curriculum, information
literacy, and technology standards, including all ISTE NETS standards.
often serve as primary technology integration specialists in their buildings.
About School Libraries

Libraries support the curriculum, promote literacy development, and foster

lifelong reading habits among children through the development of carefully
selected print collections and the infusion of educational technology..
Libraries provide:
a wealth of educational resources for students in the form of online
databases; eBooks;audiobooks; online catalogs; creativity and
research tools; and professionally vetted websites that are available at
school and home.
ready access to technology hardware, including computers, printers,
assistivetechnologies for special needs students, presentation
equipment, digital readers, and cameras, as well as a variety of
specialized educational software and online applications.
equitable access to technology for students of all income levels.

flexible, broadly available access points for technology whether the

school uses computer labs, portable devices, or a hybrid model.
a location that encourages individual study, group collaboration, and
large group presentations.
About School Librarians & Educational Technology
School librarians play a critical role in the infusion of educational
technology in their schools. In particular, they
support the use of technology throughout the school by working
closely with the school's technology coordinator or fill the role of
the technology coordinator when a separate position does not
exist.
serve as information literacy and educational technology
specialists in their schools.
address educational technology and information literacy skills
instruction embedded in the curriculum.
provide technology training for teachers, administrators, and
parents
work with teachers, counselors, and administrators to prepare
students to succeed in higher education, the work place, and in
society.
help students develop important digital citizenry attributes to
demonstrate responsible use of information and technology.
provide leadership in the development of local information and
technology literacy standards
Educational Technology Issues Faced by School Librarians
Today
In today's difficult economic times, many school districts have
chosen to cut non-classroom teaching positions. These cuts run
counter to a large body of research that indicates that a strong
library program, staffed by certified school librarians, correlates
with significantly greater student achievement. Short-term
savings are obliterated by long-term consequences of denying
students equitable access to educational resources and
instruction provided by the school's information literacy

specialists and technologists - school librarians. As schools close

their libraries or staff them with non-certificated personnel,
students lose access to professionally managed print and
electronic resources. At an unprecedented time in history when
students require development of complex information literacy
and technology skills to succeed, a robust school library program
is a prerequisite to success.
> adequate funding for technology, including sufficient
connectivity, electrical access, hardware, software, subscription
databases, and online tools to equitably support research and
inquiry-based learning.
> access to relevant professional development that supports
them in maintaining currency in their knowledge of educational
technology and its applications.
> funding and incentives to assist school districts in
committing to staffing all school libraries with certified school
library professionals and appropriate support staff.
> language in legislation that specifically highlights the
inclusion of school librarians to ensure that these critical
professional positions are not eliminated due to ambiguity and
misinformed prioritization.