Letters

Library media specialists have input, but who's listening?

I was dismayed to read "Getting In the Principal's Face" (October 2004, p. 11). In reference to how few administrators are library advocates, Principal John Titus notes that "it's about the library media specialist getting in the principal's face. Some [librarians] don't advocate well…" This comment seems to indicate that principals are just waiting for someone to tell them how to make impressive advancements in their school's academic climate. Sadly, in my 22 years of experience in two schools (a high school and an elementary school), under eight different principals, I have not found this to be the case. I am very vocal about what the library can do for our school. I have made principals aware of current research that shows the value of the library program. I have attended national conferences and brought back wonderful ideas for how teachers and librarians can partner to achieve more for our students. I have been met with polite comments and empty promises. One principal, when given the opportunity to allow our students greater reading success, informed me that he "can't tell [his] teachers what to do." I have written a letter to each school board member and offered to attend a meeting to present information gleaned from conferences that would lead to greater academic success for our students. I received no response.

Sadly, it's been my experience that being a library advocate is only successful when one works with a principal willing to rock the boat and take a stand. No, I do not blame the administrators. I just don't feel it's fair to indicate that librarians are sitting quietly in their rooms waiting for the world to recognize their value. I work with willing teachers who are powerless to influence colleagues who show no interest. A concerned principal, truly interested in the academic climate of the school, would be most welcome.

Janice Pickens
Media Specialist
West Washington Elementary
Campbellsburg, In