How School Librarians Help Kids

Basics

• Elementary schools usually have a library that is accessible by students a set number of days per week. The time is structured, but includes the opportunity for an elementary student to have individual time with the librarian who might read aloud to him or teach library skills. These include understanding the layout of a library and finding specific sections like fiction, nonfiction and reference. Children are allowed to peruse magazines and newspapers and check out grade-appropriate books. Middle and high school students are usually allowed more library time that is less structured. The librarian is more of a facilitator, helping students find what they need while reinforcing their knowledge of how to use available resources.

Literacy

• School librarians can help students develop a love for literature by encouraging discussions about the books they are reading or by reading aloud to them. Many children now take state-mandated exams in which they have to read passages from fiction, nonfiction and expository texts, then answer questions about them. Librarians have the opportunity to expound on many topics and explore various authors and historical books that will help students when they are preparing to take tests.

Academic

• School librarians are certified staff who can provide much needed academic help. Classroom teachers instruct and assign, but might not have the necessary time to give supplementary assistance to students. They should have an open line of communication with the librarian and coordinate schedules for one-on-one and small group study and research sessions. The librarian can use this time to help each student find information on topics currently being studied. Librarians can also provide crucial assistance to any student who might be struggling in reading and other subjects. These services evidently have a direct impact on student success. A study conducted by the Pennsylvania School Librarians Association in 2007 concluded that poor and minority students in schools with full-time librarians had gains in reading and writing scores and were less likely to be considered low-performing.

Technology

• School librarians are also media specialists who have to remain current on technological advances for research, including digital downloads, e-books and search engine optimization. Students need to be proficient in accessing these resources. Librarians have to balance instruction in these new developments while emphasizing the relevance of traditional print reference sources like encyclopedias when writing research papers or working on school projects.