Investing in School Libraries and Librarians to Improve Literacy Outcomes

Abstract

More than 50 years of research show that students with access to well-resourced school libraries with certified librarians consistently perform better academically and score higher on standardized assessments. While underserved students see even bigger gains from robust library services, they are less likely to have access to these resources. Yet since 2000, there has been a nearly 20 percent drop in school librarian positions, which translates to 10,000 fewer fulltime school librarians across the country (Lance 2018). This article was previously published by the Center for American Progress.