First blog.......I have cleaned my house, finished my laundry, run my errands, reviewed articles for projects, and even watched a little of the ballgame on tv.....but alas the blog must be blogged. I don't know why I approach this so reluctantly....but I do. Thank goodness I have a definite topic. I think the randomness of blogging is what makes me feel hesitant and frankly inadequate. Nonetheless, I am here and I will speak!!

My interview was with Mr. Richard Tysinger, the media coordinator of my school (Boonville Elementary). He was very cooperative and very eager to help. This is Mr. Tysinger's first year as media coordinator. He has just completed and graduated from the MLS Program. He admits to being a bit overwhelmed. He is a "wearer" of many hats and not all of them are a comfortable fit.The recurring statement from him seemed to be "there is so much to do and no time to do it". He also realizes that his program is financially limited.

He wishes to offer more training in SmartBoard tech. He wants to plan more tech skills activity for the students. He would like to have more collaboration with the classroom teachers. He would really like to work more with the actual 'hands on' library tasks such as cataloguing (which he really enjoys), but there is no time. He feels very frustated at times but he does love librarianship.

He wants to replace outdated software, keep the computers within the library in good running condition, supply each classroom teacher with good, dependable equipment, and also continue to build the inventory of books, magazines, videos, and other necessary media but there is never enough money for all on his wishlist.

He has learned much just by troubleshooting, which he remarked, (with a laugh) that has become very good at. He is very frustrated by the school's computer filter system and the system's deep freeze. He does not have the administative leave to over-ride either of these. Mr. Tysinger is frustated by there not being guidelines and/or a curriculum to follow. On the other hand he does enjoy using the USWISE Owl system and he is pleased with some improvements that have been made with the reporting of tech problems to the Central Office. There are also several computer programs being used within the school that he sees as worthwhile and successful. He thoroughly enjoys working with the students.....though he was surprised at first just how hard that can be. He admits he was very idealistic and naive coming into a public school.

He sees the need for a secure wireless system but he also understands it would be extremely costly.....other words....it probably won't happen. He also sees a very different possible future for school media centers. He fears they may one day be all digital with a traveling media specialist that would only be present part of a day or part of a week. He thinks para-professionals may have full-time positions at the schools to run the media centers.

He came into the job full of optimism, idealism, and with a love for all things 'library'. He is still optimistic, idealistic, and full of love for all things 'library'. We are lucky to have him as a part of our school family.