A school library (or a school media center ) is a library within a school where students, and frequently their parents, and staff of a public or private school have access to a variety of resources. The goal of a school library or media center is to ensure that all members of the school community have equitable access "to books and reading, to information, and to information technology". A school library or media center "uses all types of media . . . is automated, and utilizes the Internet [as well as books] for information gathering." School libraries are distinct from public libraries because they serve as "learner-oriented laboratories which support, extend, and individualize the school's curriculum... A school library serves as the center and coordinating agency for all material used in the school."
39-408: School Library Journal ( SLJ ) is an American monthly magazine containing reviews and other articles for school librarians , media specialists, and public librarians who work with young people. Articles cover a wide variety of topics, with a focus on technology, multimedia , and other information resources that are likely to interest young learners. Reviews are classified by the target audience of
78-559: A "flexible schedule". A flexible schedule means that rather than having students come to the library for instruction at a fixed time every week, the classroom teacher schedules library time when library skills or materials are needed as part of the classroom learning experience. 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. As information specialists, school librarians develop
117-619: A circulation of 38,000 subscribers and more than 100,000 readers. Reed sold the two journals in 2010 to Media Source Inc. , owner of the Junior Library Guild and The Horn Book Magazine . The School Library Journal website provides full access to every issue published from 1996 to the present, including the current issue. It also publishes several blogs and several e-newsletters including Curriculum Connections , SLJ Teen , and SLJ Extra Helping . School library Researchers have demonstrated that school libraries have
156-421: A number of documents—including an overview, annotated bibliography and research papers—and is also intended as a web platform for ongoing consultation. In the first stage of the review from November 2012 through 2013, " social scientists , economists , business leaders, education specialists , legal experts and technologists"—mainly from outside the library field—were consulted. One of the key focal points of
195-402: 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. The major finding of these studies was that students with access to a well-supported school library media program with a qualified school library media specialist scored higher on reading assessments, regardless of their socio-economic statuses. In addition,
234-505: A resource base for the school by using the curriculum and student interests to identify and obtain library materials, organize and maintain the library collection in order to promote independent reading and lifelong learning. Materials in the library collection can be located using an Online Public Access Catalog ( OPAC ). Often these catalogs are web-based from which students can gain access both at school and from home. This role also encompasses many activities relating to technology, including
273-522: A school librarian functions as the literary map to the resources and materials found within the library. A school library functions as an opportunity for educators to work with librarians in support of a resource center for the students to be able to safely access the internet for both school work and interacting with each other. In her article "Tag! You're It!": Playing on the Digital Playground," Dianne de Las Casas discusses how today's youth
312-559: A study conducted in Ohio revealed that 99.4% of students surveyed believed that their school librarians and school library media programs helped them succeed in school. A report that reported similar conclusions was compiled by Michele Lonsdale in Australia in 2003. Library services to schools have evolved since the late 1800s from public or state library book wagons to informal classroom collections to what exists today. The latter part of
351-541: A teaching certificate. 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. School librarians may read to children, assist them in selecting books, and assist with schoolwork. Many school librarians also teach technology skills, such as keyboarding and Microsoft and Google applications. Some school librarians see classes on
390-884: A wide range of issues related to libraries. These manifestos include: Endorsed by IFLA's Governing Board in April 2012, the first draft of the Manifesto for Libraries Serving Persons with a Print Disability was intended to support the Marrakesh VIP Treaty . After further drafts, the LPD Manifesto was passed in November 2013 at the 37th UNESCO General Conference in Paris. The LPD Manifesto encourages libraries to provide more accessible library and information services for blind and visually impaired patrons. According to
429-681: Is also a founding member of Blue Shield , which works to protect the world's cultural heritage when threatened by wars and natural disaster. IFLA was founded in Edinburgh , Scotland , on 30 September 1927, when library associations from 14 European countries and the United States signed a resolution at the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Library Association of the United Kingdom . Isak Collijn , head of
SECTION 10
#1732775955570468-778: Is also a member of the Tunisia Monitoring Group , a coalition of 16 free expression organisations that lobbies the Tunisian government to improve its human rights record. Launched in 1984 and initially known as Advancement of Librarianship in the Third World, the programme has supported capacity building through a series of small grants and projects in developing and transition countries and advocacy for access to information. This program focuses predominantly on three main programs: Established in 1984, The Strategic Programme on Preservation and Conservation (PAC)
507-896: Is an international body representing the interests of people who rely on libraries and information professionals . A non-governmental, not-for-profit organization, IFLA was founded in Scotland in 1927 with headquarters at the National Library of the Netherlands in The Hague . IFLA sponsors the annual IFLA World Library and Information Congress , promoting access to information , ideas, and works of imagination for social, educational, cultural, democratic, and economic empowerment . IFLA also produces several publications, including IFLA Journal . IFLA partners with UNESCO , resulting in several jointly produced manifestos . IFLA
546-448: 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.” 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
585-643: The National Library of Sweden , was elected the first president. The first constitution was approved in Rome in 1929 during the World Congress of Librarianship and Bibliography. During the 1930s the first library associations from outside Europe and the US joined: China , India , Japan , Mexico and the Philippines . By 1958 membership had grown to 64 associations from 42 countries. A permanent secretariat
624-483: The 1950s, 40% of schools indicated the presence of classroom collections. Around 18% reported having centralized libraries. City schools reported 48%, and rural schools reported 12%. 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. The National Defense Education Act (NDEA) of 1958
663-487: The 19th century marked the beginning of the modern American library movement with the creation of the American Library Association (ALA) in 1876 by a group of librarians led by Melvil Dewey . In the early stages of development, school libraries were primarily made up of small collections with the school librarian primarily serving a clerical role. Dewey wrote that "a broad conception at the end of
702-570: The 25th anniversary of the establishment of IFLA's Committee on Free Access to Information and Freedom of Expression, the landmark IFLA Statement on Libraries and Intellectual Freedom was the focus of a special issue of the IFLA Journal IFLA/FAIFE is a member of the International Freedom of Expression Exchange , a global network of non-governmental organisations that monitors freedom of expression worldwide. It
741-684: The CLM was created to advise and represent IFLA on matters of international copyright law. The CLM produces legal briefs and is the representative for IFLA at meetings of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). The CLM's activities for the WIPO involve: A core activity of IFLA is the Committee on Free Access to Information and Freedom of Expression, which monitors the state of intellectual freedom within
780-541: The IFLA, lack of access to information is the biggest barrier for persons with a print disability to fully and effectively participate in all aspects of society. The six statements of the LPD Manifesto are as follows: The Jay Jordan IFLA/OCLC Early Career Development Fellowship Program Sponsored by IFLA and OCLC , "provides early career development and continuing education for library and information science professionals from countries with developing economies." Each year,
819-503: The century of the work of the schools is simply this, to teach the children to think accurately, with strength and with speed. If it is in the school that they get their start, then where do they get their education?" 1920 marked the first effort by the library and education communities to evaluate school libraries with the publication of the Certain Report , which provided the first yardstick for evaluating school libraries. By
SECTION 20
#1732775955570858-440: The continuing global pandemic. IFLA's objectives are: More than 60 sections, strategic programmes, and special interest groups are organized in five divisions to carry out a variety of IFLA's activities and programs. These divisions are: IFLA operates six strategic programmes: Copyright and intellectual property issues and laws have long been recognized important to the library profession. A volunteer-driven committee,
897-718: The country. Hundreds of new school libraries were expanded and renovated during this time. Most recently, school libraries have been defined by two major guiding documents: Information Power (1988) and Information Power II (1998). In 1999, the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) published the globally important UNESCO School library Manifesto , which states: "The school library provides information and ideas that are fundamental to functioning successfully in today’s information and knowledge-based society. The school library equips students with life-long learning skills and develops
936-895: The four-week program provides up to five individuals with the opportunity to interact with important information practitioners in the field. Fellows deliver presentations that address libraries' challenges and formulate development plans that benefit their personal career growth. Samar Jammoul, Safadi Public Library, Lebanon Davaasuren Myagmar, National Library of Mongolia Tracey-Ann Ricketts, National Library of Jamaica Ramiro Jose Rico Carranza, Universidad Católica Boliviana San Pablo , Bolivia Arnold Mwanzu, International Centre of Insect Physiology & Ecology (icipe), Kenya Boris Đenadić, National Library of Serbia , Serbia Chantelle Richardson, National Library of Jamaica Chandra Pratama Setiawan, Petra Christian University , Indonesia Eric Nelson Haumba, YMCA Comprehensive Institute, Uganda Sharisse Rae Lim, National Library of
975-445: The highest participation rates in the world for reading challenges. It has been embraced by more than 95% of public, private, and religious schools. School libraries are similar to public libraries in that they contain books , films , recorded sound , periodicals , realia, and digital media. These items are not only for the education, enjoyment, and entertainment of all members of the school community but also to enhance and expand
1014-437: The imagination, enabling them to live as responsible citizens" (para. 1). School library media centers in the 21st century can, and should be, hubs for increased student achievement and positive focused school reform . —Kathleen D. Smith The school library exists to provide a range of learning opportunities for both large and small groups, as well as individuals with a focus on intellectual content, information literacy, and
1053-672: The integration of resources in a variety of formats: periodical databases, web sites, digital video segments, podcasts, blog and wiki content, digital images, and virtual classrooms. School librarians are often responsible for audio-visual equipment and are sometimes in charge of school computers and computer networks . Many school librarians also perform clerical duties. They handle the circulating and cataloging of materials, facilitate interlibrary loans , shelve materials, and perform inventory. International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions The International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions ( IFLA )
1092-421: The learner. 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. School libraries function as a central location for all of the information available, and
1131-430: The library community worldwide, supports IFLA policy development and co-operation with other international human rights organisations, and responds to violations of free access to information and freedom of expression . FAIFE provides guidance and leadership on issues of intellectual freedom around the world through the publication of annual reports, guidelines, manifestos , special reports, and statements. In 2022,
1170-547: The organisation's name. Since then further new categories of membership have been created, including personal affiliates. IFLA has now grown to over 1,700 members in approximately 155 countries. It is headquartered in the Koninklijke Bibliotheek , the National Library of the Netherlands , in The Hague. In 2021 for the first time, IFLA held World Library and Information Congress (WLIC) online because of
1209-621: The programme follows three main guiding principles: The first IFLA Trend Report, "Caught in the waves or caught in the tide? Insights from the IFLA Trend Report", was launched at the World Library and Information Congress in Singapore on 19 August 2013. The IFLA Trend Report resulted in the identification of emerging high-level societal trends which may affect the global information environment. The Trend Report consists of
School Library Journal - Misplaced Pages Continue
1248-454: The publications: preschool ; schoolchildren to 4th grade, grades 5 and up, and teens; and professional librarians themselves ("professional reading"). Fiction , non-fiction , and reference books books are reviewed, as are graphic novels , multimedia, and digital resources. School Library Journal was founded by publisher R.R. Bowker in 1954, under the title Junior Libraries and by separation from its Library Journal . The first issue
1287-550: The report was the inundation of the archives with a tidal wave of information. By 2010 this represented more than 1 zettabytes of data or 1.8 trillion gigabytes. The report listed five key trends predicted to impact how societies and individuals "access, use, and benefit from information in an increasingly hyper-connected world": The IFLA Trend Report continues to publish annual updates on these five key trends, as well as compiling and creating further resources. IFLA has endorsed and collaborated on several manifestos that cover
1326-461: The school's curriculum . Budget is a critical component of building a school library collection. It is important to utilize those funds for the best interest of the school community. In many schools, libraries are staffed by librarians , teacher-librarians , or school library media specialists or media coordinators who hold a specific library science degree. In some jurisdictions, school librarians are required to have specific certification and/or
1365-596: The social, cultural, and educational growth of students. Activities that are part of the school library media program can take place in the school library media center, the laboratory classroom, through the school, and via the school library's online resources. In Australia, school libraries have played a major role in the success of Reading Challenge programs initiated and funded by various State Governments. The Premier's Reading Challenge in South Australia, launched in 2003 by Premier Mike Rann (2002–11), has one of
1404-629: Was a response to Sputnik , and Title III of the NDEA provided financial assistance for strengthening science, mathematics, and modern foreign language. 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. Most notable during this time was the Knapp School Libraries Project , which established model school library media centers across
1443-402: Was established in 1962. By 1970 there were 250 members from 52 countries. The secretariat was moved to The Hague in 1971. By 1974 IFLA membership stood at 600 members in 100 countries. Membership criteria were expanded beyond library associations in 1976 to include institutions, i.e. libraries, library schools and bibliographic institutes . At this time, the word Institutions was added to
1482-433: Was established in 1984. It focuses on efforts to preserve library and archive materials, in any form, around the world. Unlike other IFLA Strategic Programmes, PAC features a decentralised approach, with global strategies implemented by a Focal Point and activities managed by Regional Centres. PAC aims to ensure that both published and unpublished library and archive materials are preserved in an accessible form. In doing so,
1521-566: Was published on September 15, 1954. Gertrude Wolff was the first editor. Early in its history SLJ published nine issues each year, dated September to May and released on the fifteenth of each month. It now publishes monthly. In 2008 School Library Journal launched Series Made Simple , a twice-annual supplement which features reviews of series nonfiction books. It also releases a Best Books list annually. R.R. Bowker sold SLJ and Library Journal in 1985 to Reed International (later merged into Reed Elsevier ). In 2006 School Library Journal had
#569430