April 2026

School Libraries Welcome Students, Teachers, and Communities to Come Together



School libraries are more than just a space that holds books and materials. It is an adaptable space to fit the needs of all individuals. They are a classroom for instruction and reading promotion. School libraries function as a hub of the school and sometimes the community.

School Libraries: The Place. 63% Virtual Spaces for programs. 73% individual stury spaces. 99% small group instruction. 93% classroom instruction. 73% meeting room functions. Here are a few remarkable statistics:

  • 91% of school districts in South Dakota have a school library
  • 7,000 students visited a school library independently every day in SY 2024-25
  • 4,450 classes visited their school library every week in SY 2024-25

School libraries encourage creativity, learning, and growth. Talk with your school librarian and learn how you can make the most of your school library!

Did you know? SDSL helps make all libraries accessible through its Accessible Library Services. Through this program, information becomes more accessible for those who are unable to access standard print due to visual, physical, or learning disabilities. They can access audio and braille materials and equipment at no cost, building confidence by reducing social isolation and helping cultivate a lifelong love of reading and learning! This program is also available for students – reach out today to find out what resources they can help provide your students!

Interested in learning more about this program from the SDSL team? Connect with them at one of their upcoming events:

For more information, contact Kathleen Slocum.