Libraries are crucial in collecting and disseminating information to support student success. While the specific staffing and roles may vary across educational institutions, media specialists or school librarians often play a vital role in coordinating various forms of knowledge within libraries.
As the cornerstone of information for student success, libraries require media specialists to help educators coordinate these various forms of knowledge. The online Master of Education (MEd) in Curriculum and Learning (C&I) with a concentration in School Library Media program from William Paterson University (WP) prepares librarians to assist in this process.
Information Organization
Media specialists are skilled in organizing and classifying information resources, including books, journals, databases and multimedia materials. Educational experts agree that library media specialists are crucial to education. School library media specialists create systems such as cataloging, indexing and metadata tagging, making it easier for educators and students to locate and access relevant resources.
Media specialists are responsible for curating collections that align with the educational needs and interests of students and educators. They select and acquire materials that cover diverse subjects, ensuring a broad range of resources is available to support the curriculum. This includes traditional print resources as well as digital content.
Technology Integration
The library media specialist’s role continues to evolve as libraries increasingly incorporate digital resources, databases and online tools. An IFLA Journal report discusses the changing role of the media specialist. Experts note the increased dependence on information literacy, guided inquiry and co-teaching during the pandemic has led to the implementation of these practices post-pandemic.
Media specialists stay updated with the latest technological advancements and assist educators in integrating technology into their teaching practices. They may offer guidance on digital research methods, accessing e-books, using educational apps and navigating online databases.
Providing instruction on research skills, information literacy and effective use of library resources is a standard job duty. Media specialists collaborate with educators to design lessons incorporating library resources and teach students how to navigate and evaluate information critically. Media specialists also assist students and educators in locating and using relevant resources for assignments and projects.
Literacy for All
Library media technology can be exciting, fun and beneficial to all students. An American Library Association article says practicing basic literacy skills with technology makes learning easier. Librarians and media specialists can use technology to help students understand that whether on a tablet, or a computer or inside the pages of a book, literacy is accessible to everyone.
Media specialists sometimes use technology to collaborate with educators to support student learning. They often work with teachers to identify resources that complement specific lesson plans, provide recommendations for supplementary materials and offer support in designing engaging and effective assignments. They also serve as a resource for professional development, helping educators follow new trends in information resources and instructional strategies.
Focus on the Future
The future is promising for media specialists and librarians. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects employment opportunities to grow by approximately 6% through 2031. The median annual wage for these jobs was over $60,000 annually in 2023.
Current educators interested in supporting equitable access for all students while fostering a love of learning and reading should consider WP’s online MEd C&L in School Library Media program. Library media specialists coordinate the vast array of knowledge resources in libraries. Their expertise in information organization, resource curation, instruction, technology integration and collaboration helps educators and students optimize their use of library materials, ultimately contributing to student success.
Learn more about WP’s online MEd C&L in School Library Media program.
