Moving from Public to School Library Position

[Tracey DeMario]

Hello Everyone,

I am trying to move from a public librarian position to a position in a private/independent school and so far am finding it very discouraging. I am trying to emphasize the storytimes, book club and other children's programming that I am involved with, but does anyone have any suggestions about what I can do further? I am thinking of getting on the substitutes list for some schools I am interested in, in order to gain some teaching experience. Any other advice or suggestions would be appreciated.

[Main Street USA School Libraries]

DEFINITELY get on the sub list. Schools everywhere are desperate for subs and it is great experience! I have been working in a public library in the Children's Room sinced 2003. In 2004 I took a full time job as a school librarian in a public middle school.

I am not sure what state you are from or what certification requirements there are for SLMS in your area; however you may be competing with SLMS that are certified and have therefore been required to take education classes and have experience from student teaching.

Is there any possibility of you visiting in the schools in the role of a public librarian reaching out and sharing resources that the public library has to offer? We do that every couple of months by coordinating with the public library in my district. It would be a win, win situation for you and the schools. Also maybe ask a librarian if you can observe classes and ask principals if you can set up a "public library station" at school Read-A-Thons, at back to school nights, exhibits nights, etc. all for more exposure and experience.