Career Options
Over the next decade, almost 70 percent of school library media specialists across America are expected to leave their jobs, many due to retirement, according to the American Library Association. In addition, fewer people are going into the profession, resulting in more jobs. In 2016, the number of jobs rose by over 5 percent, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Some job growth may be tempered by any economic downturn, as schools make cutbacks and eliminate library positions or cut hours.
Careers
Stricter certification rules, federally mandated standards and test scores and the increased role of technology in classrooms and libraries all have led to major changes in the profession. School library media specialists introduce elementary, middle school and high school students to literature and help them locate and select books and other media. They also help students conduct research via traditional media and the Internet, and they may assist teachers in instructing, developing curricula, acquiring and selecting materials or team-teaching.
Further information
AASL Learning About the Job: http://www.ala.org/aasl/education/recruitment/learning
Bureau of Labor Statistics: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/librarians.htm
Vermont Agency of Education educator shortage areas: https://education.vermont.gov/documents/teacher-shortage-areas
Salaries
Library media specialists salaries are similar to those of teachers, according to the National Bureau of Labor Statistics. In 2021, the average Vermont public school school library media specialist was $61,190.