A study of Australian school libraries in 2013 showed that there is a significant link between the number of school librarians employed in school libraries and NAPLAN reading results. But school library resourcing is inconsistent across school types (primary, secondary, P-12) and education sectors (Government, Catholic, Independent).
Teacher-librarians: we need them now more than ever! Read these questions to ask your child, and questions to ask at your child's school about their library resourcing.
Ten things students will miss without a teacher librarian:
1. Physical and digital resources that are professionally selected to meet school and personal needs.
2. Acquiring 21st century skills.
3. Learning experiences that are enhanced through teacher/teacher librarians collaboration.
4. A place to visit that is open, friendly, attractive and a safe haven.
5. A place to use their imagination.
6. The potential for high standardised test scores.
7. Time during class, during lunch, during the school day, and after school to work on projects when they have no other access to computers.
8. Going beyond academic requirements.
9. Teachers who extend learning experiences beyond the classroom.
10. A library website that offers access 24/7 to an online catalogue, selected electronic resources, databases and curriculum-related websites.
Further reading:
Future learning and school libraries, 2013.
School libraries and teacher librarians in 21st century Australia, 2011.
Australian School Library Association. 2014. Research into school libraries and teacher librarianship.
Information supplied by the Australian School Library Association.