Library Media Specialist (2025 - 26 School Year) (8208)

BASIC FUNCTION & RESPONSIBILITY: Serve as teacher, research resources expert, and instructional partner to involve the library in the instructional programs of the school. Provide services and resources that allow students to develop skills in locating, evaluating, synthesizing, and using information to solve problems. Facilitate and maintain the school library and library programming.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education/Certification:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university or Master’s degree from an accredited college or university (for individuals certified after January 23, 2001)
• Valid Texas Teacher Certificate
• Master’s degree in Library and Information Science from a college/university accredited by the American Library Association preferred
• Valid Texas Library Endorsement or Library Certificate preferred
• ESL Supplement preferred

Special Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

• Knowledge of Dewey decimal system and circulation procedures
• Knowledge of school librarian certification standards
• Knowledge of information retrieval systems
• Knowledge of Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS)
• Knowledge of curriculum design, implementation, evaluation, and refinement
• Knowledge of effective instruction and evaluation methodologies
• Knowledge of continuous improvement process
• Knowledge and understanding of complexities of building collaborative structures in the educational environment
• Skill in using technology as a learning tool in the library
• Skills in locating and obtaining instructional materials to support the aligned curriculum
• Skill in engaging others in collective inquiry and problem solving
• Skill in collecting, analyzing, and using data to support student learning
• Skill in building collaborative teams to transform instructional practices
• Skill in operating standard computer and software applications, including but not limited to electronic mail, word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and presentations
• Skill in communicating effectively with various stakeholders, both verbally and in writing
• Ability to organize and prioritize work responsibilities

Experience:

• Three years of classroom teaching experience

CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES: The essential functions, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the characteristic duties, responsibilities, knowledge, skills, and abilities noted herein; however, this is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and tasks performed by positions found in this job description.

Instructional Management:

• Collaborate with teachers to integrate information problem-solving skills into subject areas and team teaching, as appropriate.
• Provide group instruction and individual user guidance for students in location of resources and use of research techniques.
• Support the implementation, monitoring and/or evaluation of assigned programs for elementary and secondary education, curriculum, and/or instructional support, and ensure that assigned programs are efficiently and effectively administered.
• Support and participate in meeting the objectives of the campus/department improvement plans.
• Consult teachers on appropriate use of materials and help them schedule materials for classroom instruction.
• Serve as information resource for users of library/media center materials and provide staff development opportunities for teachers on the availability and use of campus and district learning resources.
• Create a library/media center environment that is conducive to learning and appropriate to the maturity level and interests of students.

Student Management:

• Interact with students to promote positive attitudes toward school library.
• Assist campuses in resolving parent/student issues and concerns in a timely manner.
• Assist in managing student behavior in accordance with Student Code of Conduct and student handbook.

Management of Administrative, Fiscal and/or Facilities Functions:

• Coordinate and manage all activities pertaining to the library, both administratively and instructionally.
• Consult and plan with teachers on the appropriate use and scheduling of materials for classroom instruction.
• Select new books, periodicals, and materials to meet the curriculum needs of the campus.
• Assist in preparation of bibliographies and curriculum guides.
• Promote literacy through special programs such as book fairs, author visits, specific reading programs and storytelling.
• Coordinate the acquisition, processing, organization, distribution, maintenance, inventory, and budget process of all campus library resources.
• Serve on the asset management team.
• Participate on committees as requested by supervisor.
• Coordinate departmental activities with other District offices and administrators and provide assistance to requesting departments.
• Follow District and department policies and procedures.

Human Resources Management:

• Support and mentor new teachers and new librarians.

Organization Improvement:

• Analyze critical needs in assigned areas and work collaboratively to implement and improve programs.

Professional Growth and Development:

• Plan, facilitate, and present professional development to campus personnel.
• Model and train staff in using innovative technology for professional productivity and integration into curriculum.
• Participate in professional development that increases effectiveness and improves District performance.

Texas Academic Performance Indicators and Campus Performance Objectives:

• Support the administration of state-mandated testing at campuses in compliance with state and federal guidelines.
• Monitor and review campus test data and use findings to assist with planning corrective action for the affected group of students and/or campuses.

School/Community Relations:

• Interface with governmental agencies, business and civic organizations, and the community to provide needed information and to promote the District’s initiatives.
• Coordinate development and maintenance of community resource file.
• Use appropriate and effective techniques to encourage community and parent involvement.

Organization Morale:

• Foster positive morale by participating in team building activities and the decision-making process.
• Communicate and collaborate with campus/department staff to enhance service delivery, program development, and customer satisfaction.

Other Responsibilities:

• Comply with policies established by federal and state law, including but not limited to State Board of Education and local Board policy.
• Perform other job-related duties as assigned.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED: Supervise work assignments of library support personnel, student aides, and adult volunteers.

MENTAL DEMANDS/PHYSICAL DEMANDS/ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS:

• Tools/Equipment Used: Standard office equipment including computer and peripherals; standard library equipment including imaging equipment; standard instruction equipment
• Posture: Regular sitting, standing, kneeling, squatting, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting
• Motion: Repetitive hand motions; frequent keyboarding and use of mouse; regular overhead reaching; climbing ladders
• Lifting: Frequent light lifting and carrying (under 15 pounds); occasional moderate lifting and carrying (15–44 pounds)
• Environment: Work inside; work alone; exposure to biological and chemical hazards such as mold and dust
• Mental Demands: Work with frequent interruption; maintain emotional control under stress

DISTRICT OF INNOVATION (DOI): Uncertified applicants can be hired under the District of Innovation at a graduated pay scale of:

• $56,000 (DOI Degreed in ACP)

• $51,500 (DOI Degreed not in ACP)

• $49,000 (DOI Non-Degreed with 90 hours)
• $45,000 (DOI Non-Degreed with 60-89 hours)

until certification is complete. DOI teachers must fulfill the district DOI plan expectations each year.

Salary : $56,000 - $69,322