Identification of extended communication networks of school library media specialists

Complex and often hidden networks exist within organizations and workgroups. The pattern of relations between individuals and groups of individuals that constitute the network may constrain or enable work performance by members of the organization. The researcher reports the findings of a study in which social network analysis methodology was applied to a school library media organization operating within a school district. The patterns of relations constituting four distinct communication networks were identified, measured, and mapped. Potential effects of these networks on individual library media specialists and on the organization as a whole were described.