Maine Association of School Libraries

Position Statement on the Role of LIBRARY MEDIA SPECIALISTS
in School Administrative Reorganization

Twenty-first century students must demonstrate the ability to select information, evaluate its accuracy and authority, critically analyze findings and then effectively communicate new knowledge. Students in school libraries read; utilize print, non-print, and technology resources; and learn to evaluate and use information efficiently, effectively, and ethically. The goal of Library Media Specialists is to teach students to develop lifelong learning including literacy skills and strategies. Multiple research studies in sixteen states affirm that there is a clear link between increased student achievement and school library programs staffed by state-certified Library Media Specialists. School library programs provide cost-efficient resource sharing and equitable educational opportunities for all students. Therefore, in any Maine school administrative reorganization plan, the Maine Association of School Libraries (MASL) is committed to the concept that all students should have a school library program staffed and coordinated by Library Media Specialists.

School libraries, where the resources for exploration in all subject areas are centrally located, are often called Òthe heart of the schoolÓ, but it is the Library Media Specialist who transforms a space with books and computers into a place at the heart of learning. Students benefit when Library Media Specialists employ professional skills to select quality curriculum materials and appropriate resources in digital, print and other formats. All students and staff in the school benefit when they have regular access to a certified Library Media Specialist with a masters degree in library science and the expertise to teach information literacy and technology integration.

Students are encouraged to read when strong library collections provide appropriate materials to stimulate interest and learning. Studies show that the size of book collections and the degree of self-selected reading are strong predictors of higher scores on the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) exam. School libraries have always been cost effective in their sharing of books and materials and today that resource sharing is expanded through technology. Library Media Specialists understand the value of the investment Maine has made in Maine InfoNet and teach students and staff to effectively use statewide library catalogs and MARVEL subscriptions.

Although todayÕs teens and young adults may appear technologically savvy, results of the national ICT (Information and Communication Technology) Literacy test indicate that students lack 21st century skills. Students need the instruction of a Library Media Specialist in information problem solving processes to develop the critical thinking skills necessary to transform their knowledge. Library Media Specialists collaborate with classroom teachers at all grade levels and subject areas to design inquiry-based research projects that grow progressively more sophisticated in the level of thought and reaction required as students mature. By learning information literacy skills in the context of their schoolwork, students are more likely to retain the skills necessary for success in our global economy.

TodayÕs students and teachers demand the services of a school library staffed by certified Library Media Specialists and educational technicians (Media Assistants) as indicated in the current Essential Programs and Services (EPS) funding formula. The school administrative reorganization plan for Maine schools must also acknowledge the staff time needed within each school building for a Library Media Specialist to teach students, collaborate with classroom teachers and manage a library program that ensures the success of all students. Cost effective resource sharing and equitable access to quality print and digital materials also require a Library Media Specialist designated as a coordinator overseeing building level Library Media Specialists and programs.

Students benefit from school library programs because Library Media Specialists transform facilities and resources into learning that impacts student achievement. Any initiative designed to provide cost efficiency and equitable educational opportunities for all Maine students must have the resource sharing skills and instruction provided by Library Media Specialists.