Library Ambassadors: Awesome Library Aides in Action

by April Sicola Stone, Librarian at Four Points Middle School in Leander ISD, TxASL Talks member

The concept of utilizing student library aides is not new. When budget constraints force school districts to eliminate adult library assistant positions, librarians across the country strive to empower students to enhance library services. When I met Jacqui Daves Isser 5 years ago, I noticed a shift within her library program. She utilized student library aides just as I had for years; however, she challenged these select students with more responsibility and high standards. I interviewed Jacqui recently to find out the details of this facet of their library that shifted it from fair to fabulous.

This is Jacqui Daves Isser’s 5th year as a librarian at Henry Middle School in Leander ISD. After teaching for 9 years in the Lubbock area, she shifted to her role as a librarian in Frenship ISD. During that transition, she inherited a sustained program of student library aides. Students were able to choose this position as an elective if they completed an application. Through time, Jacqui quickly realized that these students could do so much more so that she could teach lessons to visiting classes. These students are natural helpers who have the opportunity to build a skill set for future librarian positions and beyond. They are happy to take ownership. Student aides have the class period to do their job, then sit and read if time permits.

           

When Jacqui moved to the Austin area, she interviewed with the principal at Henry Middle School. She explained to her interviewers that she required student library aides to be an effective librarian. She further asserted that the library program could not thrive unless she had the support of these students. After she was hired, the school counselors provided Jacqui with the option of creating her own application and choosing students who she thought would be a good fit. Jacqui did not delay. Recruitment began on “Meet the Teacher” night. She selected those who wanted to be in the library who also possessed kind and helpful attitudes.

The HMS library ambassadors did not develop into its current success overnight. Jacqui adds a few new aspects each year. The library ambassador handbook is constantly changing and currently includes tasks like how to put a book on hold. It evolves over time and students are able to use it as a reference material. Jacqui determines what tasks they are capable of and observes what each individual student enjoys doing in the library.

HMS Library Ambassadors

 I asked Jacqui how she motivates different students. One incentive for students is the annual holiday party. She solicits students for ideas and they do not disappoint! In the past, students have suggested a sign-up sheet for treats, an all-day pass to the library for the day of the event, the ability to bring one friend for one period, movies, and puzzles. Former student ambassadors train new aides each semester. This offers the opportunity for these experts to exude an extreme confidence that is a pleasure to witness. Their librarian also rewards their efforts by providing special treats for exclusive enjoyment by the library ambassadors.

Some of the basics that students enjoy include setting up for the book fair and delivering holds. Once they gain experience, students can help process new books. Badges are issued so that they can deliver items to classes with an air of professionalism. Ambassadors sit at the circulation desk to check books out to students each period. Sometimes 2 (or even 3) student aides are needed during busy times of circulation, like lunchtime.  After they have learned the ropes, Jacqui will request feedback so that she can improve library services for the entire school. In addition, their librarian will assign these students projects that they work on continuously throughout the year. The project options are blogging, book suggestions for a display, labeling series, and a favorite… finding librarian “errors” like misspellings and incorrect series numbers. Student ambassadors learn the Dewey Decimal System by locating books to be weeded from a list, genre shelving, and searching for the bottom 50 titles to weed using a Destiny report. In fact, these students gradually learn the entire weeding process.

Library Ambassadors circulate books.

With student ambassadors manning the circulation desk, the librarian is not chained to the circulation desk. She can teach; meet with teachers, vendors, or other district staff members; repair books, and assist patrons amongst the stacks (in their organic environment). The advantages for the ambassadors are numerous as well. Through their library experience, they see teachers and their school in a whole new perspective. They are more aware of the happenings throughout the school. Student ambassadors observe and contribute to special events and presentations in the library. It is a win-win for patrons, students, and librarians alike. Mrs. Isser shares her processes with her fellow Leander ISD librarians often so that students throughout the district will benefit from this empowering library ambassador program.