Read the report.

On January 29th, 2009, researchers at Queen's University and People for Education released a new report. →Read the report

School libraries have the potential to transform schools, to increase literacy and improve student achievement.

Our study found that exemplary school libraries are the central hub of their schools, prominently placed and central place of activity and learning. The teacher-librarians are leaders in their school and outstanding teachers. Both the library and the teacher-librarian are recognized as playing a critical role in supporting the educational outcomes of the school.

Students in these schools report high levels of satisfaction and engagement with their school libraries. They are active readers and the majority also want to have more opportunities to use the school library.

The study identified a number of ongoing challenges including funding and policy to support school libraries.

One of the most practical findings in the study was that the support of the elementary school principal was found to be vital. Without support of the elementary school principal, exemplary school libraries cannot exist.