Study of Kansas School Libraries

Study of Kansas School Libraries
This research was inspired by the 2005 School of Communication, Information and Library Studies, Rutgers, University, Institute of Museums and Libraries (IMLS) Research Symposium in New York City at Scholastic, Inc. on April 28-29, which focused on research interests related to learning through school libraries. This five year study seeks to better understand student learning as indicated in state assessments where instruction is based on Kansas Library Media and Technology Model Standards.

The model 2006 Kansas Library Media and Technology Standards are designed to meet the needs of Kansas' school libraries, administrators, school library media specialists, teachers, parents and students by

dividing into specific developmental stages the national information literacy standards as noted in the book, Information Power: Building Partnerships for Learning (1998).
providing guidelines for the development and expectations for school library media programs, including aligned and integrated curriculum and instruction, diverse and appropriate materials selection, and quality customer service.
providing guidelines for the development and expectations for technology and computer applications programs, including aligned and integrated curriculum and instruction, experience with diverse and appropriate applications and technologies, and development of real world skills.

Utilizing quantitative and qualitative methods, we will study student academic achievement and student access or no-access to fully licensed school librarian and/or library services and resources.

This study further seeks to describe Kansas school libraries of distinction. The term "school libraries of distinction" is used to describe those schools with fully licensed school librarian(s) who are involved in authentic inquiry through collaboration with students, content teachers, and school technologists.

This is a statewide research project supported by a coalition of State agencies including: Kansas State Department of Education; School of Library and Information Management, Emporia State University; Kansas Association of School Librarians, Kansas Association for Educational Communications and Technology; State of Kansas Library.