SD DOE Press Release

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For Immediate Release: July 16, 2012
Contact: Mary Stadick Smith - (605) 773-7228

Board approves school library self-assessment

The South Dakota Board of Education formally endorsed a self-assessment tool based on the South Dakota School Library Guidelines at a regularly scheduled meeting Monday.

The South Dakota Library Association and South Dakota State Library Board previously gave it their seal of approval as well.

“Emerging 21st century school libraries reflect a major shift nationwide. Today’s school libraries are learning hubs with physical and digital content, led by teacher/ librarians who work with students, teachers, administrators, curriculum and project-based assignments,” said Daria Bossman, assistant state librarian and director of Library Development Services for South Dakota. “As documented in some 60 national studies over the past two decades, school libraries that reflect 21st century best practices are essential to guiding educators’ efforts in meeting the college and career readiness needs of our K-12 student population.”

The South Dakota School Library Guidelines outline the components of an effective 21st Century school library and librarian. They describe what is necessary to be exemplary in three specific and distinct areas: Program, Place and Professional.

Based on that model, a taskforce developed a scale as a self-assessment tool with accompanying instructions and an award application. The task force was comprised of both certified and non-certified school librarians, teachers and administrators, as well as representatives from the South Dakota Library Association, South Dakota State Library, and the Department of Education.

For more information go to the South Dakota State Library webpage, http://library.sd.gov/ or contact the Office of Development Services at 800-423-6665.

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