HESTL Program: Teacher Librarians

Planning Credential Application   

• Identify your core values and use those values to collaboratively develop and communicate a vision for the library program that aligns with the school community’s needs and goals.
• Collaboratively develop a multi-year growth plan for the library program that reflects your school community, gather evidence that demonstrates plan implementation, and reflect and communicate plan progress. 

Instruction Credential Application  

• Collaboratively develop authentic learning experiences that integrate library skills/standards, promote Colorado Essential Skills, prioritize learner engagement, and accommodate students’ unique learning needs. 
• Enhance students’ learning experiences through co-teaching, curated library resources, and library programming. 
• Collect evidence that measures learner impact and reflect on assessments to adapt instruction.

Leadership Credential Application  

• Serve in school or district leadership roles and lead professional learning that aligns with school goals. 
• Regularly meet with your administrator to share library program impact, discuss library funding, and share how library support staff increase your instructional and leadership capacity.

Environment Credential Application  

• Create a safe, inclusive, and welcoming learning space that fosters curiosity and flexibly accommodates the needs of the school community.

Management Credential Application  

• Create a positive work climate for library support staff, volunteers, and student aides.
• Build an appealing, balanced and inclusive library collection that aligns with curriculum and school goals, reflects students’ needs and interests, and is guided by input from the school community.
• Implement a weeding plan and educate the school community about the importance of weeding and following district policy related to the removal of library materials.
• Ensure school library policies and procedures align with best practices.

Principal Collaboration Credential Information

School leadership support is an essential component of a highly effective school library program. School principals can earn the HESTL Principal Collaboration credential by demonstrating exceptional collaboration, support and advocacy for the teacher librarian as a leader and instructional partner.