The IB PYP Teacher Librarian serves as both an educator and a learning resource coordinator who supports the philosophy and framework of the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP). This role aims to develop literacy, information literacy, and inquiry-based learning skills through collaboration with classroom teachers and by providing a library environment that supports conceptual learning and student agency.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
1. Teaching and Learning
- Teach literacy, information literacy, and research skills aligned with the IB PYP inquiry-based approach (facilitating reading literacy, information literacy, media literacy, and research skills integrated with the PYP inquiry approach);
- Support the implementation of Units of Inquiry through collaborative planning, teaching, and reflection with classroom teachers;
- Encourage reading engagement and enjoyment as foundations for lifelong learning;
- Integrate critical thinking skills, Approaches to Learning (ATL), and the use of various print and digital information resources.
2. Collaboration
- Collaborate with the PYP Coordinator, classroom teachers, and the school team in designing learning experiences aligned with the Learner Profile, Approaches to Learning (ATL), key concepts, related concepts, and global contexts within the PYP framework;
- Provide and curate learning resources to enrich transdisciplinary learning experiences;
- Actively participate in team meetings, collaborative planning sessions, learning reflections, and program evaluations in accordance with IB Programme Standards and Practices (PSP);
- Co-plan learning experiences with teachers, support Units of Inquiry, and lead literacy and reading culture initiatives.
3. Library Management
- Manage the library collection to ensure it remains relevant, up-to-date, inclusive, diverse, and aligned with the IB PYP curriculum needs;
- Develop effective library borrowing and management systems that support student independence;
- Provide a safe, inclusive, flexible, learner-centered library environment that supports exploration, collaboration, and inquiry.
4. Information Literacy and Digital Citizenship
- Teach ethical use of information, copyright, and academic integrity in alignment with IB values;
- Guide students in selecting, evaluating, and responsibly using information sources;
- Support the development of digital literacy and the use of technology as a learning tool.
5. Professional Responsibilities
- Participate in training and professional development related to IB PYP, literacy, and educational librarianship;
- Support program evaluation processes, reflection, and continuous improvement of learning quality;
- Demonstrate professionalism aligned with the school’s values, culture, and IB philosophy.
Qualifications, Experience, and Skills
- Educational background in Education, Bachelor of Education (B.Ed./S.Pd.) or Master of Education;
- Understanding of the IB PYP philosophy and framework (IB certification is an advantage);
- Strong communication, collaboration, and professional reflection skills;
- Ability to work with elementary-aged students from diverse backgrounds;
- Strong interest in literacy, inquiry, conceptual learning, and student agency;
- Experience working in an IB PYP school and understanding “The Role of the Librarian in the PYP.
