This study examines relevant theory for both primary teacher librarianship and primary teacher education in the area of social education in order to determine the expectations and responsibilities of the role of the primary teacher librarian in regard to use of resources and library related information skills required for resource based learning. Experience of teacher librarians in schools has revealed the need for integrated planning and teaching of appropriate skills in the context of classroom curriculum for effective resource based learning to be achieved and for the development of independent learners. However, surveys of preservice and practising teachers indicate that many teachers seem to have little expectation of collaborating with the teacher librarian so that library focused information skills can be taught at a time when children are needing to gather and use information for curriculum purposes.