Library media specialists in K-12 education are taking the role of leadership in planning for and implementing uses of information technologies throughout the school curriculum. This calls for knowledge of electronic resources and skill in both using them and teaching others to use them in instructional settings. Library media specialists play an important consulting role in all areas of the curriculum and this role calls for familiarity with curriculum and with materials to meet curricular needs. While this role is important at all levels, it is particularly important in the use of trade books to teach reading. Management of a complex facility within the school and organization of resources demand background in administration and cataloging.
Information services comprise an essential component of the school library media program.
Library media specialists must be skilled in locating and accessing information and in teaching students information processes, from defining their research question through locating, extracting, and evaluating information appropriate information, and communicating their findings in written or electronic publications. Students completing the requirements of this course are eligible for K-12 licensure in Iowa, if they have met the fundamental requirements of teacher licensure already.