Celebrating Wisconsin School Libraries and Librarians

School librarians impact every learner in their schools. During the month of April, the American Association of School Librarians honors library media specialists and staff for School Library Month. The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction wishes to take this opportunity to express our appreciation for all our Wisconsin school librarians and celebrate the school library as a vital, essential part of our school communities.

 

Often as the building’s largest classroom, school libraries provide our students with a place to read without judgment, recognize themselves in books, practice research and inquiry for their classes and their personal interests, be inspired to play and create, and relax in a safe space. The licensed school librarian serves as a vital connector between students and all the library offers. They not only carefully curate a collection of books meeting the diverse needs of all students, but they also find ways to help connect the right book to each student.

 

The school librarian connects to other educators through collaboration where research and inquiry, media literacy, and digital citizenship are integrated into every content area. The school librarian connects the school community by creating an inclusive environment built on the culture of the school where a variety of activities, from video creation to writing code for a robot to mindfulness practices, may be flourishing at any moment.

 

The role of school librarians is continually evolving and elevating their capacity for leadership. Most recently, they have worked relentlessly to create virtual library spaces comparable to their physical ones while supporting students and staff along the way. They have been called upon to uphold the freedom to read while empathetically meeting the needs of all families. And, they have continually worked to build authentic and effective district library program plans in an uncertain, constantly changing environment.

 

Building and maintaining a high-quality school library program with a licensed library media specialist is an investment in student success. Numerous research studies have consistently shown these programs to increase student achievement. Library spaces and the way students access information may change, but engaging students in reading and teaching them to navigate and evaluate information in all its forms will always be important to their educational journey. Wisconsin is fortunate to have the Common School Fund for library resources foundational to success. Library media specialists are what make those resources effective with meaningful programs aligned with district priorities.

 

 

State Superintendent Dr. Jill Underly supports our school libraries and school librarians by proclaiming April School Library Month (link to proclamation). Take the opportunity to visit your school library to celebrate and show appreciation for your school library staff.