For better or worse, many school librarians (Beauty) have been saddled with Chromebook (Beast) management. We are too smart, however, to succumb to Stockholm Syndrome, so we try to find ways to best manage a less than ideal situation.
Yes. It would be better to not have the Beast around at all, but, in many districts, the librarian taking care of Chromebook management is the only thing that keeps library funding in place.
While I do not have all the answers, I have developed a system that has tamed the beast to a certain degree.
First, I let my admin know that my duties as a librarian come before Chromebooks. This is how I ensure I can still collaborate with teachers, support educational technology integration, teach classes, take care of library management tasks, be open for MakerSpace time, etc.
Second, I established a protocol for how Chromebook issues are addressed:
- Students NEVER come to the library if they have a Chromebook issue. This is to minimize the loss of instructional time and to ensure student safety by cutting down on students out in the hallways.
- Students must complete a Chromebook Help Ticket (Google Form). Although we use a great Chromebook ticketing software system, I still use the spreadsheet from the Google Form to record and track all of the information related to the Chromebooks in need of repair. For me, it's easier to search using a spreadsheet rather than a software program.
- I deliver loaner Chromebooks to the student's class and take up the damaged Chromebook when available.
If a teacher "forgets" and sends a student to the library for Chromebook Help, I send the student back to class and send a template email I have ready to go to the teacher. (see image)
Third, I added a Chromebook Information section to the Library Canvas Course.
Fourth, I printed Chromebook Help flyers and distributed them to all classroom teachers, front office staff, and counselors to hang in their areas for easy student access.
I am incredibly fortunate to work in a district where the librarians are valued as librarians and not just Chromebook wranglers. My school administrators and teachers are supportive and, for the most part, help to support the established Chromebook protocol.
This week, however, I had to "revisit" the need for a library aide. You can read a copy of the email sent to the school admin, my district library admin, and the district tech director HERE.
What are some tips & tricks that have worked for you?
