Technology and School Libraries Impact

Technology is playing a greater role in the school library, with digital collections replacing encyclopedias and books and a growing focus on libraries as collaboration centers. Studies have shown that this shift can be effective in improving teaching and learning, especially if teachers and school librarians work together. A 2012 Institute of Museum and Library Services study that spanned 10 years analyzed library conditions and their impact on learning and literacy development in two Philadelphia neighborhoods. The researchers found that, when comparing a poor community with an affluent community, “children with early access to print and technology continue to build and gain knowledge. Children who don’t have early access enter school far behind and are taught the ‘basics.’”  
Schwarz, B., & Lance, K. (2013). Pennsylvania School Libraries Pay Off: Investments in Student Achievement and Academic Standards. PA School Library Project.
http://paschoollibraryproject.org/home 

School librarians impact on student achievement research

The Pennsylvania School Library Association's research determined what school library infrastructure contributes most to student achievement, the costs and benefits associated with it, and what’s needed to develop students with 21st-century learning skills. Although more than two decades of similar research has been conducted in over 22 states, the Pennsylvania study uncovered the following new and significant findings:
- Quality school library programs significantly impact the most vulnerable students. 
- Writing scores are more positively impacted than reading scores.
This is the first statewide study to assess the roles of librarians in teaching the American Association of School Librarians’ (AASL) Standards for the 21st-Century Learner as well as Common Core standards.  
Staffing remains the key factor. This study suggests that there’s no substitute for a full-time, certified school librarian who’s fully engaged in the teaching and learning process.
Kachel, D., & Lance, K. (2012).   Pennsylvania School Libraries Pay Off: Investments in Student Achievement and Academic Standards.
 

Pennsylvania school library research

Having access to a full-time, certified school librarian means better outcomes for Pennsylvania’s public school students, according to a new study. The researchers examined the 2010-11 Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA) tests in Reading and Writing for students in grades three through 11, and tracked outcomes for students based on five school library factors: staffing, collections, digital resources and technology infrastructure, library access, and funding. Overall, the greatest impact on student test scores was seen from having a full-time, certified librarian. 
RSL Research Group. (2012). Supporting the Infrastructure Needs of 21^st Century School Library Programs. Louisville, CO: Author. 
paschoollibraryproject.org.

Pennsylvania School Library study

In 2011, school libraries throughout Pennsylvania responded to a survey commissioned by the state legislature. The survey asked questions about school library staffing, staff activities, collections, technology, hours and access, visits, expenditures, and more. Consistently with previous school library impact studies, this analysis found that test scores tend to be significantly higher for schools that have full-time certified school librarians as well as for those that have such a librarian with support staff. The second phase of this study is based on qualitative surveys of administrators, teachers, and librarians.
Lance, K. (2012). Assessing the Infrastructure Needs of 21st Century School Library Program. Harrisburg: Pennsylvania Department of Education.
http://keithcurrylance.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/PA-staffing-and-PSSA-scores-w-graphics.pptx