Role of Librarian in Managing School Libraries: A Study Based on Selected National School Libraries in Gampaha District

Abstract

As a heart of school, the school library has very acute significant role to play. The principal objective of this paper is to study the managerial role of the school librarian. The other objectives are to identify the management functions, to examine how librarian fulfil these managerial functions, to explore the leadership characteristics, to investigate support given by the principal and staff, to examine the weakness in managing school librarian and to identify the problems faced by the professional or the Teacher librarian. Method of study was the survey and 10 national school libraries in Gampaha district used as a sample. Primary data collected using questionnaires, interview and participatory observation. Problems identified were the scarcity of library materials, the staff shortage who are trained and acquainted with these library materials. Most of school students were unaware what are good library material, how use them. The school library staff had a poor understanding on technical services. It is essential to train librarians and library staff in school library management by offering training opportunities sending them for workshops, conference and training programs. It is better to offer them both theoretical all practical aspects of school library management. More attention has to be given when allocating school library funds and much care has to be given in obtaining school library materials.