A Framework for Characterizing 21st Century School Librarianship

Abstract

In this article, we describe a conceptual framework, called the Innovative Library Activities Framework, which helps clarify the influence of three dimensions of librarianship - sense of librarianship, resource community, and conception of library space - on the implementation of innovative library activities. The first dimension encompasses a librarian's professional identity and his/her understanding of the profession. The second dimension addresses how a librarian seeks guidance and support from a resource community for development and implementation of library services and materials. The final dimension involves a librarian's conception of the library space and place. Each dimension is closely examined, drawing evidence from data collected during observations of and interviews with participating school librarians. We conclude with implications for the profession and LIS education.