School Libraries

School Libraries Are Essential

Schools with a strong school library program—and a certified school librarian—ensure their students have the best chance to succeed.

In too many schools, school library budgets and school librarian  positions are being cut. This puts our children’s education and work- force readiness at peril.

How does the school library support your child?

THINK

Display curiosity. Seek answers.
Gain Knowledge. Ask questions.

Light bulbThe school librarian can provide you strategies to help your child select print and digital resources and discover new ideas on topics important to your family.

SHARE

Share knowledge. Participate with other students gaining knowledge.
Be an active member of our society.

Hand holding a light bulbThe school library is a great place for your child to share ideas and thoughts with their peers and the global community. The school library can show you how this happens online and face to face.

CREATE

Make educated decisions. Create products with new knowledge.
Draw conclusions.

Pencil and paint brush form an "x"The school librarian can demonstrate safe, age-appropriate strategies that encourage your child to create knowledge as a writer, artist. storyteller, and digital citizen.

GROW

Aspire to grow as a student. Increase literacy.
Use information ethically.

Two leaves gro from a bookThe school librarian can suggest new books and resources to stretch your child's boundaries and help them grow as a learner.

Why School Libraries?

Why School Librarians?

More than 60 education and library research studies have produced clear evidence that school library programs staffed by qualified school librarians have a positive impact on student academic achievement. These studies clearly demonstrate that strong school library programs help all students do better academically, even when other school variables are considered. Students who don’t speak English at home can be among those who benefit the most.

Certified school librarians make the whole school more effective.

  • They teach students how to learn and help teachers drive student success.
  • School librarians work with every student in the school, teaching them to think critically, providing the resources and support learners need in school and beyond, and nurturing their creativity.
  • They are essential partners for all teachers, providing print and digital materials that meet diverse needs and collaborating to deepen student learning.
  • They are leaders in the school, helping to develop curriculum and representing the learning needs of all students and teachers.
School librarian recommends a book to student at Thurgood Marshall Middle School

School libraries are more important than ever

According to a 2016 study by Stanford University, more than 80% of middle schoolers cannot tell the difference between sponsored content and a real news article.

School libraries help close the achievement gap

Students in high-poverty schools are almost twice as likely to graduate when the school library is staffed with a certified school librarian.

School libraries create lifelong learners

School libraries give students a unique opportunity for self-directed inquiry. Four out of five Americans agree that libraries help spark creativity among young people.

How to Help

Gather Local Information

Explore the situation at your child's school. If the situation is good, you can help make it even better! Ask the school librarian how you can help.

Become an Advocate

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