Libraries play a very important part in student success. Students view libraries as a positive and essential part of their lives (Neal, 2018). Libraries
provide access to all kinds of resources for students. Some of these resources
include information in a variety of formats, computers and other devices, free
databases, a quiet and safe space for studying, as well as intellectual freedom,
privacy and much more. Many public libraries have educational programs for
children that encourage summer reading, 100 Books Before Kindergarten, etc. However, libraries provide much more than
resources to students. Libraries support students and want them to succeed in
their studies. Libraries instill lifelong learning habits onto students. And
this all starts in the school library.
The success of all libraries will depend on the essential work of school libraries. - Jim Neal
School libraries play an essential role in contributing to
student success. A lot of the time, a school library is the first exposure kids
have to the library. School librarians often collaborate with teachers to provide the best resources and learning experience for students.School libraries and librarians are a powerful means to
help prepare students to live, work, and learn in the 21st century (Logan, 2008). When a
librarian advocates for the library, they are also advocating for students. Here
is a video discussing why school libraries are important.
My mom would always take my siblings and I to the library
as kids for story/craft day as well as to complete any school assignments we had.
I remember in fourth grade a group of friends and I went to the library to look
for information on the California Missions. Our local librarian was very knowledgeable
on the topic and was extremely helpful for
finding the right resources. I’ve always
felt comfortable going to the library for recreational or school purposes. I
still to this day resort to my local library when I need resources or
information for an assignment. In a way, I view my library as a home away from
home.
References
Logan, D. K. (2008). Putting Students First. American Libraries, 39(1/2), 56–59. Library, Information Science, & Technology Abstracts.
Neal, J. (2018). Fight for School Libraries : Student Success Depends on Them. American Libraries, 49(3/4), 4–4. Library, Information Science, & Technology Abstracts.
Very nice video. Your post reminds me how very important K-8 libraries are as they introduce what is available to students and how to use the library to access those resources. These are lifelong skills. Unfortunately, these libraries and often a librariean are often the victims of budget cuts!
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