Hiring and Career Resources

TOOLS FOR STAFFING, ADVOCACY, AND PROFESSIONAL GROWTH

Strong school libraries begin with effective hiring, professional preparation, and informed leadership. These resources support district leaders, school library supervisors, educator preparation programs, faculty, and school librarians with practical tools for recruitment, hiring, career development, advocacy, and professional learning. Whether you’re building a library program, preparing future school librarians, or pursuing your next career opportunity, these resources are designed to help strengthen the profession.

Sample Job Description

This sample job description outlines the roles, responsibilities, and qualifications of a certified school librarian. Use it to support hiring, communicate role expectations, and promote a shared understanding of the school librarian’s impact on teaching and learning.

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Image of an AASL handout titled "Rooted in Excellence" shows the elements of the standards thougjh the lifecycle of a tree where the Common Beliefs are the Roots and the Competencies are the leaves, and everything else in between.

Interview Matrix

This interview matrix provides a structured framework for evaluating school librarian candidates using questions aligned to core competencies, AASL Standards, and professional expectations. It supports consistent hiring practices while also helping candidates prepare for interviews and reflect on the knowledge, skills, and leadership expected in today’s school libraries.

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Image of an AASL handout titled "Rooted in Excellence" shows the elements of the standards thougjh the lifecycle of a tree where the Common Beliefs are the Roots and the Competencies are the leaves, and everything else in between.

Looking for More Career Resources?

Visit AASL's Education & Careers page for additional career information, preparation resources, and recruitment tools from AASL to support aspiring school librarians, educator preparation programs, and school districts.

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Book cover for ‘The School Librarian’s Guide to (Almost) Everything’ by Maura Madigan, featuring a stylized open book held by hands, red circular design elements, and a dark blue dotted background. Includes colorful text and the AASL logo with the tagline ‘Transforming Learning.’

Start strong. Keep learning. Lead your library.

Whether you’re preparing for your first school librarian position or growing your practice, discover practical guidance for navigating the many roles, responsibilities, and opportunities of the school library profession.