The traditional role of the school librarian encompassed collection development, reading guidance and literature promotion, and reference. Over time these functions have expanded and participation in carrying out functions has become more active. For instance, the teaching role of the library media specialist is a dramatic and far-reaching extension of the traditional function of reference and information services. Another trend is a disparity in perceptions of the role of library media specialists between members of the profession and others, as well as between the professional literature and actual practice. New technologies, the information explosion, and recent emphasis on lifetime learning are contributing to the importance of modern school media specialists in education, and a definable role is emerging that is responsive to a changing world even though it is based on traditional functions. This role includes: (1) collection management based on a unified media concept; (2) promotion of literacy and guidance in the use of media; (3) teaching information skills for an information society; (4) acting as a change agent in the schools through awareness of new technology and consultation on curriculum and instructional design; and (5) assuming information management responsibilities beyond the walls of the centralized library media facility. Nineteen references are listed. (MES)