Althea Briers is a school librarian, has been part of Engaging and Empowering School Libraries training membership for over a year and has been an active part of our community. She shares her story and experience as part of my behind the membership blog series.
Moving countries: a culture shock!
I am a South African teacher librarian who moved to the UK with my British husband nine years ago. Back in South Africa, I worked at a school where I was fortunate enough to help design and build a new library. I had the support of two assistants and three additional staff members to help manage the library, along with a healthy budget to ensure its smooth operation. Our professional development was well-supported, with teacher-librarian meetings held quarterly at different school libraries and a conference for school librarians every two years. It was quite a culture shock to move to a first-world country and discover that school librarians, here are often classified as support staff.
Finding my lifejacket
Joining Elizabeth's membership was like finding a lifejacket. It connected me with a group of like-minded individuals who are doing incredible work in the inspiring world of school libraries.
In many schools, the library is a hub where the librarian interacts with students and put simply "gets on with the job." Opportunities for professional dialogue are often limited to subject-specific discussions when staff collaborate on projects or reading programs.
Since we don’t typically share subject areas, classrooms, or offices, it can sometimes feel isolating. Being part of a community of school librarians helps combat that isolation. Meeting with others, sharing successes and challenges, and exchanging advice is not only refreshing but also stimulating. Fellow school librarians often provide brilliant insights because they understand the unique aspects of our role.
Beyond Reading for Pleasure
Elizabeth’s passion for FOSIL (Framework Of Skills for Inquiry Learning) has encouraged me to start exploring this program. The sessions I’ve attended have been well-presented and insightful, and they’ve given me a lot to think about.
Elizabeth has also emphasised the importance of staying up to date with AI. I believe AI represents one of the biggest challenges facing school librarians today. It reminds me of the time when librarians were concerned about computerising library catalogues—a change that ultimately made library management far easier. I certainly don’t miss typing out catalogue cards, filing them in cabinets, or manually managing book loan cards every day!
Flexibility within the membership
One of the things I appreciate most about Elizabeth’s training membership for school librarians is the flexibility it offers. With sole responsibility for my school library, I often choose the evening session option, where I can relax with a cup of tea and enjoy engaging in discussions.
Membership also grants access to a wealth of training archives on Elizabeth’s website. Each week, Elizabeth sends an email highlighting Three Thoughts for your Week something valuable to read, listen to, or watch, all related to school libraries. This is free and a great way to start understanding Elizabeth's expertise of her subject.
Elizabeth is a true professional who deeply understands our field and the critical role libraries play in schools. Her membership provides access to a strong network of school librarians, ensuring you never feel alone in your work. Being part of this community has been an invaluable source of support and inspiration for me.
Training membership for school librarians
Feeling isolated in your role as a school librarian? You're not alone. Connect with like-minded individuals and discover the power of community. Sign up for my membership and start your journey today.
Engaging and Empowering School Libraries training membership is open to all. Please do check out what is on offer. Prices are low, support is plentiful and learning is invaluable.
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