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The purpose of this study was to examine the perceptions of ESLMSs (exemplary school library media specialists) as total educators (Fullan & Hargreaves, 1996), including the SLMS s purpose, the ESLMS as a person, the organizational context the SLMS works in and the culture of the SLMS s school. The hypothesis was that ESLMSs role and development as experts in their field was directly related to their purpose and motivations, their view of themselves as persons including their beliefs and values, and the culture and organizational context of the specific school in which they work. Qualitative research methodology was utilized to create case studies of three ESLMSs. This qualitative study was conducted through the use of questionnaires and interviews, analysis of state and federal reports, an examination of collected artifacts, and an analysis of an online discussion group. I selected three high school media specialists currently employed in Georgia public schools whom were deemed expert by having earned National Board Certification in Library Media (earned between 2003 and 2007).

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Melissa Allen, Ed.D., was recognized as the Library Media Specialist of the Year for Georgia in 2013. She is a certified teacher, media specialist, teacher support specialist, National Board Certified in Library Media, Gifted Education endorsed, and has published more than 40 articles in educational journals, books, and newspapers.

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