LM_NET: Library Media Networking

Previous by DateNext by Date Date Index
Previous by ThreadNext by Thread Thread Index
LM_NET Archive



A few weeks ago I sent to the list a copy of the evaluation sheet for
librarians for the Birmingham Public Schools.  Although a checklist might
not be the best type of evaluation, the majority of public school systems
in this country use such a form for yearly evaluations.  While I would love
to be evaluated by the Portfolio Assessment procedure that was mentioned in
Sarah Peckham's letter, I was very pleased to find that the Birmingham
Public Schools recognize librarians as separate from teachers in the types
of duties that they perform.  I have served as a librarian in five states,
including other systems in Alabama, and the Birmingham system is the first
one that evaluates librarians as to their specific and unique duties.  I
have been evaluated on a teacher evaluation form in the past more times
than I can count.

In addition to the check sheet, our yearly evaluation consists of a
conference with the principal who discusses the various aspects of the
library program, such as strengths and weaknesses, ways to improve the
program to better serve students, funding, and plans for the coming year.
My conference in April of 1994 lasted two hours as the two of us made plans
for the 1994-95 school year.  So in essence we do "reflect and evaluate"
the year.  On the checklist are spaces for both the librarian and principal
to make comments so accomplishments, concerns, and goals are mentioned.  In
addition, goals, concerns, and accomplishments are included on the yearly
report that is turned in to the supervisor each year.

Librarians do need to be evaluated as to the types of duties outlined on
their job description.  It is up to us to convince school administrators of
that.


     Madeline L. Buchanan            Barrett Elementary School
     Library Media Specialist        7601 Division Avenue
     dems105@uabdpo.dpo.uab.edu      Birmingham, AL  35206
                                     (205) 838-7644


LM_NET Archive Home