Advocacy
We all know students need access to school libraries and the professional staff that run them, but that's never been more true than now. In the midst of these uncertain times, it's essential that school librarians advocate for library programs and promote the myriad benefits they offer students.
The resources below will help you spread the word about your role and the impact your library has on the lives of your students.
The resources below will help you spread the word about your role and the impact your library has on the lives of your students.
If you need assistance with advocacy, please don't hesitate to reach out to MASL's advocacy chair, Iris Eichenlaub.
If you need assistance with advocacy, please don't hesitate to reach out to MASL's advocacy chair, Iris Eichenlaub.
News
News
As COVID-19 Budget Cuts Loom, Relevance of School Librarians Put to the Test
Unmasking Your Contributions to Decision-Makers during School Closures
Snapshot of School Librarian Roles during School Closures
Resources
Resources
These documents, and feedback collected from more than 1,300 school librarians and stakeholders nationally, provided AASL with a clear expression of the qualities of well-prepared learners, effective school librarians, and dynamic school libraries. The following Common Beliefs and summary descriptions were identified as central to the profession.
By Keith Curry Lance and Debra E. KachelMarch 26, 2018
Ideas, Planning & Templates
Ideas, Planning & Templates
by Kim Borden, Librarian and Head Robotics Coach at Plainfield Elementary School Nazareth, Pennsylvania
Newsletters & Annual Reports
Newsletters and annual reports are key advocacy tools for school libraries. Even a one-page snapshot of your stats, programming, and connection to students can go a long way in establishing the importance of your role with stakeholders. Jennifer Lagarde outlines the specifics of creating annual reports on her blog and provides a table of examples from various schools. Cathy Potter's presentation on the topic at a recent MASL Symposium provides great ideas and tools to start building!Newsletters & Annual Reports
Write Grants
Grant writing is an excellent way to bring outstanding programming to your library, and in tight budget times, they can be essential tools in supporting your school library. Look for local and state grants, like these provided by the Onion Foundation, to support your mission. Write Grants
Letter to the Editor
Consider writing a letter to the editor or contacting your local newspaper to feature a story on a program in your library. Make sure all stakeholders, including parents and community members, recognize your contributions to student learning. This template provided by the ALA is a great place to start. Letter to the Editor