An analysis of the work performed by teacher-librarians in government primary and secondary schools in Canberra

Abstract

This study examines the work of teacher-librarians in government schools in Canberra through an analysis of the tasks they perform and the level of service they can offer. These analyses are based on a diary and a questionnaire filled in by 60.2% of the total relevant population.
In the task analysis the total range of tasks and the time devoted to cataloguing, library classes and non-library classes are calculated. The percentage of time allocated to professional, technical and clerical tasks, as well as non-library tasks and time off, is ascertained. An examination is made of the level of participation of the respondents in curriculum planning, delivery and evaluation. The financial responsibility of teacher-librarians is determined, based on the library's annual budget.
In this study an attempt is made to ascertain, not the quality of one individual's work, but the level of service that can be. offered within the system. It is examined firstly, by an examination of teacher-librarians' working hours and the hours that school libraries are open. The level of library staffing is investigated, together with the training, experience and promotional opportunities of teacher-librarians. Finally the study looks at teacher-librarians' priorities, their student-free time, and the amount of time they spend doing two or more tasks concurrently.
The conclusion is reached that whilst teacher-librarians are extremely busy, much of their work is at a non-professional level. School libraries in Canberra are not involved to any great extent in the school's teaching program. Recommendations for increased staffing, improved promotional opportunities and either a centralized cataloguing system or an acceptance of simpler cataloguing procedures are offered to the A.C.T. Schools Authority. It is suggested that teacher-librarians review their priorities and endeavour to integrate the library more fully into the school's curriculum.

Date of Award	1981
Original language	English
Supervisor	Geoff Burkhardt (Supervisor)