Administration and management of secondary school libraries in Malta and Gozo

Abstract

Leadership by supportive and knowledgeable headteachers and the senior management team is the most important factor in improving library provision. They recognise how libraries contribute to learning. The most effective headteachers should have a vision for the library's key role in raising standards of literacy and making a difference to learning. When they talk about placing the library at the centre of the school - they must mean it. A headteacher of one secondary school said: 'I am very proud of our library facilities as they are central to our drive to continue to raise achievement. The library has an impact on learning across the curriculum, encourages independence and is particularly important in the vital task of promoting pupils' reading and improving their information literacy skills. The library also caters for the varied personal interests of the whole school community - education in its widest sense. We all hope that, by enjoying using our school library, our pupils will visit libraries all their lives. For these reasons, our librarian is a key member of our staff, carrying out a wide range of important roles'. Well trained and energetic librarians with good specialised knowledge have a major influence on increasing effectiveness of school libraries. The role of the librarians is crucial in the effectiveness of libraries. Active support from senior management teams contributes to their success. It is vital that the school librarian be a good manager as the responsibilities of the post are financial, operational and curricular. Unfortunately, some secondary schools provide less funds for the library than for the prize day. Schools Library Service provides good support for schools, including advice, purchasing recommendations, additional resources, training for librarians and opportunities for networking. Through the use of twenty nine questionnaires distributed to the heads of secondary schools the aspect of how 'heads' administer and manage the library in their respective school was investigated.