The elementary library media specialists are district specialists who work under the direction of the administrator for Instructional Support Services and the principals of their assigned schools. They are teacher-librarians—licensed professionals that are certified as both teachers and as library media specialists—who have the knowledge and expertise to develop, implement, and evaluate an effective library media program that supports the school curriculum. Jordan District currently has two elementary library media specialists. They are responsible for overseeing and managing the library programs in their assigned elementary schools. (Contact Information)
Under the direction of the local school principal, the elementary library media specialist:
- Plans, establishes, evaluates, and maintains the policies, procedures and expenditures necessary for the operation of the school library media program in assigned elementary schools.
- Selects, evaluates and purchases appropriate materials which support the curriculum needs of the school, enrich the learning experience, and reflect the interests and needs of students. (See policy AA440: Library Media Selection and Review).
- Manages the library media program budget for assigned schools
- Provides in-service training for library assistants.
- Weeds the collection based on professional guidelines according to wear and tear, lack of circulation, and outdated content in order to maintain a collection that is current and appeals to student and teacher interests and needs.
- Makes information resources available through a systematically developed collection within the school and through access to resources outside the school.
- Assists principals and teachers in selecting, acquiring, and using instructional materials for development and support of the curriculum.
- Advises on laws and policies regarding information and copyright.