Librarian Interview 4

Location/Context
Elementary school library in a Title I school 

Shared Foundation: Include 

Questions asked: What are some examples of the ways in which you are implementing this competency in your library program? What are some of the resources in the library program that you are using to implement this competency? Does this competency include collaboration with classroom teachers? Are there any other comments you'd like to share? 

Examples of Implementing Competencies
She incorporates the competency of inclusion in her elementary school library in several meaningful ways. First, she focuses on the intentional curation of the collection. As this is her first year in the library, she has made it a priority to evaluate and build a collection in which all students can see themselves reflected. This includes selecting materials that represent diverse cultures, backgrounds, perspectives, abilities, and learning styles.

In addition to collection development, she prioritizes creating a welcoming and inclusive library environment for all students. She serves students on a fixed schedule in kindergarten through second grade and on a flexible schedule in third through fifth grade, allowing her to meet a wide range of student needs. Regardless of schedule, all students are greeted with a warm, inviting atmosphere. The library space includes engaging book displays highlighting diverse voices and experiences, as well as flexible seating options that accommodate different comfort levels and learning preferences.

Library programming also supports inclusivity through carefully selected read-alouds and accompanying activities. Students are encouraged to engage with lessons, share feedback, and express their insights. Additionally, her flexible schedule with third through fifth grade allows her to collaborate more closely with classroom teachers to better meet the diverse needs of students.

Resources to Implement Competencies
The resources within her library program support this competency through both physical space and instructional tools. The library is intentionally designed with flexible seating options that allow students to choose where they feel most comfortable and supported. Students gather on the carpet for whole-group instruction, then transition to tables for activities, technology use, and independent reading, supporting a range of learning styles.

In addition, the library provides access to technology resources, including 25 Chromebooks for student use. These devices are used for research, interactive learning activities, and digital literacy lessons, helping ensure equitable access to learning opportunities for all students.

Collaboration with Classroom Teachers
Yes, collaboration with classroom teachers is an important part of implementing inclusion. She works with teachers to support grade-level curriculum through research projects and instructional support. In these collaborations, she teaches students how to locate, evaluate, and use information effectively, while also providing small-group and individualized instruction to meet diverse learning needs.

She also partnered with the music teacher on a cross-curricular STEAM project for students in third through fifth grade. Students selected a musician of their choice, conducted research using SC DISCUS, and developed scripts based on their findings. The project culminated in students recording their own podcasts using Adobe tools. This collaboration integrated research, writing, technology, and the arts while promoting student voice and choice.

Challenges
One major challenge is time. Even with a flexible schedule, there is limited time to fully implement all aspects of inclusive programming the way she would like.

Another challenge is the lack of a library assistant in elementary schools in her district. All operational responsibilities fall on her and a few volunteers, which reduces the time available for instruction, collaboration, and program development.

A third challenge is building consistent buy-in from classroom teachers. As a first-year librarian in a new school, she has focused on building relationships and demonstrating the value of collaboration. While she has had success with several teachers, expanding this collaborative culture across the school is still an ongoing process.

Additional Comments
Overall, implementing inclusion requires intentional planning, flexibility, and strong relationships. She has found that small, consistent efforts in collection development, instruction, and collaboration help create a more inclusive library environment over time.

Reflection
This experience reinforced her belief that inclusion in the library goes beyond resources and is deeply connected to relationships, access, and instructional design. It also highlighted the importance of flexibility in meeting student needs across different grade levels and schedules. At the same time, it reminded her that structural limitations, such as time and staffing constraints, shape what is possible, and that advocacy and collaboration are key to expanding inclusive practices.