What does it mean to be a 21st century school library? The South Dakota State Library, a division of the Department of Education, is forming a statewide taskforce to formally and annually recognize school districts that have libraries that meet the characteristics of 21st century school libraries.

This taskforce will create a voluntary self-assessment of best practices. Included in the self-assessment will be three levels listing specific criteria to best describe and delineate “Essential,” “Enhanced” and “Exemplary” school libraries that model and teach 21st century learning skills, practices, technology and access to resources.

The state’s newly adopted School Library Content Standards and School Library Guidelines will guide the work of this group.

Additionally, the State Library anticipates that this taskforce could begin the discussion of an evaluation tool for certified school librarians based on the Charlotte Danielson framework.

If you would like more information about this taskforce, would like to participate or volunteer someone in your district, please contact any of the following State Library staff: Daria Bossman, Joan Upell or Mary Johnson at 1-800-423-6665. There may be an initial meeting in Pierre, but the bulk of the work will be done via conference calls.