The impact of michigan school librarians on academic achievement: Kids who have libraries succeed

Kari Nelson

CO

REFERENCE

Rodney, M. J., Lance, K. C., Hamilton-Pennell, C., Library of Michigan, & Hi Willow Research & Publishing. (2003). The impact of michigan school librarians on academic achievement: Kids who have libraries succeed. Lansing, Mich.: Library of Michigan. Retrieved from http://www.michigan.gov/documents/hal%5flm%5fschllibstudy03%5f76626%5f7.pdf

SUMMARY

Rodney, Lance, and Hamilton-Pennell provide research from select elementary, middle, and high schools that show increased state test scores in Michigan schools that had a school library program.  The role of the library media specialist in meeting the information needs of students were first the role of learning and teaching curriculum, second the role of providing access to information, and third the role of literacy program administration. The research showed how changes such as making more flexible scheduling, collaboration with teachers, and having up to date technology available had a positive impact on student achievement in standardized testing.  Further findings suggest that a library that gives students access to literature in multiple ways such as through the library collection and circulation, collaboration with public libraries, and book fairs will help to impact desire and understanding of literature

EVALUATION

I appreciated the information provided about how the work done in a library helps to boost test scores. I think that an article like this would be helpful to prove the necessity of a teacher librarian program as well as a need for co-teaching and collaboration.