Libraries have always had an important role in education. When you are assigned a research paper, you visit the library (either in person or online) to gather information. The latest shift in education to the Common Core has emphasized the importance of libraries in supporting instruction. The shift is moving away from regurgitating information and toward helping students prepare for the real world by becoming self-directed learners. Libraries provide the materials for students to explore and learn. I work in an elementary school library and I see students excited to come to the library to learn more about topics of interest. It is suggested that half of what students read be nonfiction; therefore, school librarians are focused on providing high-interest, quality non-fiction materials to support Common Core instruction. I believe students learn more and retain more information when the topic is of interest to them. I see teachers providing open-ended learning opportunities and students eager to explore topics presented. The nonfiction section is the most popular section in the library now!
Studies have shown that there is a direct correlation between library access and test scores. The more hours available for students to access the library, the higher the test scores (Achterman 26). In areas with students of low socioeconomic status, libraries are even more important because students may not have access to technology or books at home. At the school where I work, few students visit the public library because it is not within walking distance of their homes. The school library is their primary exposure to books and other materials outside the classroom. I believe the famous quote from Dr. Seuss is true: “The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go!”
Works cited:
Achterman, Douglas. "A New California Study: School Libraries Give Students A Better Chance At Success." CSLA Journal 33.1 (2009): 26-27. Library, Information Science & Technology Abstracts. Web. 29 Mar. 2016.
Hi Melissa,
ReplyDeleteGreat post! I like how you added in the factor that children may not visit their local library because it is to far from where they live. And for this reason if nothing else, we should definitely make sure that school libraries are prepared and well stocked with the necessary materials.