Teacher librarian building a legacy of literacy

A passionate educator dedicated to fostering literacy education and inclusion has been named a finalist for the Department of Education’s Women of Achievement Award.

Willetton Senior High School’s library services teacher Kylie Coten was recognised as one of five finalists celebrated for their significant contributions to public education in Western Australia.

Ms Coten was nominated for her dedication to transforming library services and creating a culture of reading and inclusion. 

Through her leadership, she has developed the school’s first strategic plan for library services, introduced a whole-of-school reading program, and increased student engagement with a variety of innovative initiatives.  

Her commitment to diverse learners also led to the creation of resources that support culturally and linguistically diverse students and LGBTIQA+ students. 

Ms Coten has also played a key role in ensuring accurate and balanced representations in the library collection.  

“The students at all the schools I have taught at over the past 35 years, both country and city schools, are the future of Western Australia,” she said. 

“To be able to have a lifelong impact in the education and social development of students through a great school library service makes the job I do very special. 

“I know that creating positive school library experiences for students will mean that libraries, and a love of learning, become a part of their life forever.” 

Her impact extends beyond the library walls, as she has led programs supporting research skills, digital literacy, and ethical technology use. Under her leadership, borrowing rates have increased by 13% year on year, and she has successfully launched the school’s first Book Week, engaging the entire school community in literacy-focused activities. 

Ms Coten’s influence also reaches the broader education sector, with her 35-year career as a teacher librarian spanning a diverse range of school settings. She has worked tirelessly to advocate for the role of teacher librarians in improving reading engagement and ensuring equitable access to educational resources. 

“Having a teacher librarian recognised as a finalist in this award highlights the huge positive impact that specialist librarians can have in our schools,” she said. 

Ms Coten has built strong connections with local authors, initiated a shadow judging panel for the Children’s Book Council Awards, and is a key member of the school’s Literacy and Aboriginal Education committees. 

“I was extremely overwhelmed; I am a very quiet person and I normally shy away from the limelight. I had felt so appreciated at just being nominated and didn’t expect to be a finalist,” she said. 

“The library is now an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students, particularly LGBTIQA+, culturally and linguistically diverse, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.  

“To see the increasing number of students using the library, loaning books, using library resources, and recognising that the library is a place of learning makes me so happy.” 

The Director General’s Women of Achievement Award winner will be announced at the International Women’s Day breakfast this Thursday, where inspirational special guest speaker Turia Pitt will share her inspiring journey of resilience and determination. 

Meet all five finalists. Their stories can be read on our website¹.