19 October 2007

Celebrating school libraries around the world

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School libraries around the world will celebrate the 9th International School Library Day on Monday 22nd October 2007.

"This year's theme is 'Learning - Powered by your school library' and school libraries around the country will be celebrating," announced Anette Ainsworth, President of the Australian School Library Association.

"Australian teacher librarians are an integral part of the teaching and learning process within every school community," said Ms Ainsworth. "They are information mediators and managers, information service providers and curriculum leaders. A vibrant school library program that is well-resourced, adequately staffed and funded has a strong impact on student learning and achievement."

"All schools need to consider the impact of having an effective library to support students, staff and the wider community. Research has shown the positive impact of school libraries on improved student achievement and students throughout the world deserve the opportunity to reach their potential," she said.

"The integration of information literacy, information and communication technologies and literature creates a dynamic and rich learning environment for every student through the school library."

"Therefore, it is imperative that all Australian schools have a school library that is staffed by qualified teacher librarians and support staff as well as be resourced appropriately to support all curriculum areas."

Australian teacher librarians, teachers and students will be celebrating ISLD through a variety of activities and events. Schools around the globe exchange bookmarks and information about their school community in an international spirit of collegiality, information sharing and co-operation. Others celebrate the excellence and commitment of their profession through awards programs, special presentation events and conference programs. Literacy and reading are promoted in harmony with websites, blogs and Internet based activities.

Dr Blanche Woolls, International Association of School Librarianship president in 1999, proclaimed Monday, October 18, 1999 to be the first International School Library Day. The theme for the 1999 International School Library Day (ISLD) was "A day in the life...", and focused on the many activities and issues that make up the daily life of school library personnel around the world.

Every fourth Monday in October since 1999 has focused on showcasing the richness and variety of school library services in different countries, and the contribution they make to their schools and communities.

"The Australian Library and Information Association joins with ASLA in recognising the significant contribution that teacher librarians and staff in school libraries make to the life and learning of school children in this country and helping to develop a smart nation of information literate students," ALIA Executive Director, Sue Hutley commented.

ENDS