This Library’s Purpose and Focus

These are my philosophy, mission, and vision statements for the library. What exactly does that mean? A mission statement is what I do, a vision statement is how I want this library to be, and a philosophy combines the two with my values, explaining how things are done and how goals will be met. Developing policies in the library can have an affect on the entire school community. It is therefore important for all members to have an understanding of my aspirations and how I operate within the school. These statements communicate the value of the library to students, teachers, parents, and administrators.

Philosophy

School library media centers are an integral part of developing lifelong learners. They are responsible for teaching information skills, thinking skills, and supporting the overall educational plan. They teach information technology, information literacy, and reading advocacy. They empower learners with the tools and support to become ethical users of information and ideas. It is their responsibility to support intellectual freedom and serve as a gateway to knowledge for all.

It is of utmost importance to make information services available and understandable to all patrons of this library, supporting every patron’s learning style. It is this library’s duty to instill the knowledge of accessing information and appropriate use of that information. This library will support instructional staff and students in information access, technology, and management. Promoting student achievement through experiences, with support and collaboration of teachers, administrators, staff, and parents will be expected. Compassion, empathy, and respect will always be given. Expectations will be set high and students will flourish, knowing that this librarian has faith in all of its patron’s abilities.

It is the passion of this librarian to be an instructional partner in the growth of all students. She will encourage risk, support failure, and celebrate success. She will work diligently to develop a comprehensive library collection based on both personal interests and curriculum. She will strive to be available, approachable, and flexible at all times. She will be a self-motivated leader within the school and community, determining the needs of staff and students in order to maximize student learning. She will pledge to be a teacher and a student, an impartial listener, and an ethical provider of information. She will develop the library collection, ensuring quality choices, in a variety of formats, for all students. During this collection development, she will consider the school curriculum and be sure to support teacher needs with a variety of resources. She will communicate library programs, achievements, and needs on a regular basis for all to view. She will provide an inviting and effective environment for teachers, staff, and students, which will support a love of knowledge, learning, and reading.

Mission

We are all students and teachers. In this library we learn from each other, work together to reach our goals, guide one another to become better informed, and achieve greatness. This library is where questions are asked, plans are made, creation takes place, and imagination runs wild.

Vision

This library is an experience. It is a place of information, exploration, and cultivation. It is dedicated to your needs and committed to you. It is your past, present, and future. It is here to empower you with the ability to become a lifelong learner. It is your library.