AASL Standard 4

Program Admininstration

School library media candidates administer the library media program in order to support the mission of the school, and according to the principles of best practice in library science and program administration.

This standard covers the important task that few outside the media center know about: managing the day to day operations of the media center. Many think a media specialist only circulates books and a really good media specialist may teach a few classes. Most people don't realize the time and efforts that are spent by a media specialist to keep the program running smoothly, specifically the importance of managing information resources and program resources that include human, financial, and physical components.  

Once again, my work on the PDEP was the best avenue for me to learn how important this standard is. I never imagined the detail that goes into planning a media program and its operations. To best manage information resources, we really had to look at our population. One of our goals was to reorganize and revamp the physical layout to increase access. This assignment and the reflection on the standards reinforces the fact that there is so much overlap in the standards and what the media specialist does. In other words, by adhering to Standard 4 (organizing the resources), I was increasing my knowledge of Standard 1 and increasing access. Both of these facts lead to better collaboration (Standard 2) and teaching (Standard 3). The PDEP also taught us to plan for the long term while working short term. This is because program resources, particularly financial, can change dramatically from year to year. The planning that went into the PDEP included an integral assessment component. I learned planning is important, but evaluation is even more crucial in determining success.

The Order that we put together was another example of Standard 4 in practice. We planned the order based on consideration files, teacher and student demand, and accepted selection tools. It was developed based on budgetary restrictions which are an all too common fact for media centers. Working through the order process helped me recognize that choices must be made when it comes to managing program resources. One needs to be informed when making those decisions. I also came to realize that finding new ways to secure funds is a necessary requirement for the job and if those funds cannot be secured, then we need to go back to Standard 3 and connect with the library community. Again, the process, the roles, and the goals of the media program are so intricately intertwined and influenced by so many factors.