Issue 139

Working in a school library can be incredibly rewarding, but it can also feel isolating – particularly when you are running the library on your own. Many library staff manage everything from collection development and cataloguing to reader advisory, displays and events, often with limited time and support. For those new to the role, or for staff without formal library qualifications, the learning curve can feel especially steep. It is easy to wonder where to start or who to ask. The reassuring reality is that school library staff are not alone. There is a wide range of professional support available – much of it accessible, practical and not always directly tied to classroom teaching.

Some of the most helpful starting points are organisations and websites that focus on children’s and young adult literature. These following resources support collection development, reader advisory, and staying up to date with new releases:

• Children’s Book Council of Australia – award lists, notable books, author information and reading promotion resources
• Your Kid’s Next Read – curated recommendations and themed reading lists
• Kids’ Book Review – reviews and new release highlights
• Publisher newsletters and education catalogues – teacher notes, curated lists and information about upcoming releases.

Alongside these formal resources, social media has become an increasingly valuable source of informal professional learning. Many school libraries and teacher librarians share ideas that can be adapted for different contexts. Social media can provide:

• display and signage inspiration
• reading promotion ideas
• program and event examples
• collection development suggestions
• technology tips and tools
• connections with other school libraries.

While online resources are helpful, connecting with other library staff can provide deeper and more personalised support. Local school library networks offer opportunities to meet colleagues working in similar contexts and share practical advice. These networks often provide opportunities to:

• share programming and display ideas
• discuss collection development
• troubleshoot systems and processes
• ask questions in a supportive environment
• exchange policies and documentation
• connect with staff in similar contexts.

Another valuable connection is your local book shop or public library. Book store and public library staff are experienced in reader advisory, programming and collection development, and many are eager to collaborate with school libraries. Partnerships with book shops or public libraries may include:

• class visits and membership drives
• shared reading promotions
• author events and visits
• reader advisory support
• recommendations for emerging titles
• support for reluctant or diverse readers
• community literacy initiatives.

Online communities extend these professional connections even further. Groups such as OZTL_net and Queensland Teacher Librarians Listserv (QLDTL) allow library professionals to seek advice, share resources and learn from colleagues across the country. These networks are particularly valuable for those new to the role, offering access to experienced practitioners and a supportive space to ask questions. They can also lead to informal mentoring relationships, where more experienced staff provide guidance and reassurance.

Professional reading provides another accessible pathway for building knowledge and confidence. Publications such as:

• SCIS Connections – practical articles and school library case studies
• School Library Association of Victoria Synergy – professional reflection and examples from school libraries
• Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA) – broader library sector insights and professional resources.

These publications highlight innovative programs, collection development strategies and emerging trends, allowing library staff to learn from colleagues in a variety of contexts.

Library management system providers and library vendors can also be an important source of support, particularly for those working independently. Many offer training materials, webinars, help documentation and customer support to assist with cataloguing, reporting and collection management. Vendors may also provide curated lists, standing order options and collection development advice. While these services are often used for practical tasks, they can also support professional growth and confidence, particularly when navigating unfamiliar systems.

Professional development events offer opportunities to take this learning even further. Conferences such as the National Education Summit, including the Capacity Building School Libraries conference, provide targeted sessions designed specifically for school library staff. State-based conferences, such as those hosted by the Queensland School Library Association, also create opportunities to hear from practitioners, explore new ideas and connect with others working in similar roles. These events combine practical workshops with valuable networking opportunities, helping attendees return to their libraries with both inspiration and practical strategies.

For those looking to further develop their knowledge, undertaking formal study in teacher librarianship, information management or library studies can be another meaningful pathway. Further study builds confidence, deepens professional understanding and creates opportunities to connect with others who are also developing their skills. These shared learning experiences often lead to lasting professional relationships that continue to provide support well beyond the course itself.

Working in a school library does not mean working in isolation. Whether through literature-focused organisations, review platforms, publishers, public library partnerships, professional networks, publications, conferences, vendors or further study, there are many ways to connect and grow. These opportunities offer more than ideas – they provide encouragement, shared expertise and reassurance. No matter your experience level, qualifications or context, there is a strong and supportive professional community ready to help.