Library Media Assistants demand fair pay and recognition amid overwhelming responsibilities

In a poignant moment at the Salem-Keizer School Board meeting on December 10, 2024, Brenda Winberg, a library media assistant at Myers Elementary, shared her heartfelt concerns about the challenges faced by her role. With a metaphor that likened her position to a platypus—neither fully a teacher nor an instructional assistant—Winberg highlighted the unique and demanding nature of her job, which has evolved significantly since the layoffs of licensed teacher librarians over a decade ago.

Winberg's testimony painted a vivid picture of the dual responsibilities she and her colleagues shoulder. While instructional assistants (IAs) follow scripted lessons and have defined duties, library media assistants (LMAs) like Winberg create their own curriculum and manage a myriad of tasks without the same protections or preparation time afforded to teachers. She expressed frustration over the lack of financial recognition for their extensive responsibilities, noting that while a first-year teacher earns between $50,000 and $58,000, an LMA's starting salary is only $27,700, capping at around $35,000 after six years, regardless of experience or additional education.

The emotional weight of Winberg's words resonated deeply as she described the toll of increased student-facing time and the absence of support during her lesson preparation. She emphasized the need for a reevaluation of the LMA role, urging the district to recognize their contributions and provide appropriate compensation and protections.

Following Winberg, Sarah Young, speaking on behalf of Nicole Schulman, echoed similar sentiments. Schulman, who recently left her position at Scott Elementary, recounted her struggles with inadequate training and overwhelming responsibilities. She described how her role was diminished to part-time, forcing her to juggle library duties with monitoring students in a sensory room, ultimately leading to her departure.

The testimonies from Winberg and Schulman underscored a critical issue within the district: the urgent need to reassess the roles and responsibilities of library media assistants. As the meeting progressed, it became clear that the voices of these dedicated professionals reflect a broader concern about the support and recognition of staff who play vital roles in fostering a nurturing educational environment. The board's response to these heartfelt appeals could shape the future of library media services in the district, impacting not only the staff but also the students they serve.