School library

Dewey wrote that "a broad conception at the end of the century of the work of the schools is simply this, to teach the children to think accurately, with strength and with speed.

[5] School libraries experienced another major push following the launch of Sputnik in 1957, which forced the United States to re-evaluate its priorities for math and science education.

[8] As a result, the 1960s were one of the greatest periods of growth and development for school libraries due to an increased flow of money and support from the private sector and public funding for education.

The school library equips students with life-long learning skills and develops the imagination, enabling them to live as responsible citizens" (para.

[13] In addition to classroom visits with collaborating teachers, the school library also serves as a learning space for students to do independent work, use computers, access the internet, use equipment and research materials; to host special events such as author visits and book clubs; and for tutoring and testing.

Researchers have demonstrated that school libraries have a positive impact on student achievement through the more than 60 studies that have been conducted in 19 U.S. states and one Canadian province.

": Playing on the Digital Playground," Dianne de Las Casas discusses how today's youth is much more comfortable with technology than ever before and believes that “We need to advocate for regulations and laws that support education of young people rather than simply limiting their access to the Web.”[17] The school library media center program is a collaborative venture in which school library media specialists, teachers, and administrators work together to provide opportunities for the social, cultural, and educational growth of students.

[18] In Australia, school libraries have played a major role in the success of Reading Challenge programs initiated and funded by various State Governments.

Budget is a critical component of building a school library collection, often allocated by its relevant governing body (e.g. the board of governors).

[21] The school librarian performs four leadership main roles: teacher, instructional partner, information specialist, and program administrator.

In the teacher role, the school librarian develops and implements curricula relating to information literacy and inquiry.

In the instructional partner role, school librarians collaborate with classroom teachers to create independent learners by fostering students' research, information literacy, technology, and critical thinking skills.