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Research Related to School Libraries

Current research about the impact of a quality school library on student achievement.

School library-related research and sites that review the literature.

School Library Research Summarized External link opens in new window or tab. (PDF)
Mansfield University's comprehensive, readable summary of 34 "school library impact studies" that include 23 states and one Canadian province.

Teacher Librarian Research Update External link opens in new window or tab.
Review of recent research studies about school libraries, research, technology, and more.

School Library Media Research (SLMR) External link opens in new window or tab.
Publication of the American Association of School Librarians. As the successor to School Library Media Quarterly Online, the SLMR promotes and publishes high-quality original research concerning the management, implementation, and evaluation of school library media programs.

School Libraries Work 2016 Edition External link opens in new window or tab. (PDF; 1MB)
Summarizes findings from a decade of empirical studies that cite the measurable impact school libraries and library media specialists have on student achievement.

School Library Impact Studies External link opens in new window or tab.
Recent studies conducted in 15 states.

California School Library Media Centers and Academic Achievement (PDF)
California-specific survey of public school issues, library issues, technology issues, and academic network applications conducted with the 25 largest school districts in 2002.


Texas School Libraries External link opens in new window or tab.
Standards, resources, services, and students' performance (April, 2001).

Simmons Study External link opens in new window or tab.
2000 report on the relationship between libraries and overall school achievement. Conducted by James C. Baughman.

National Library Power Program
Results of a 10-year project to improve school library programs in 19 communities.

Questions:   Curriculum Frameworks and Instructional Resources Division | CFIRD@cde.ca.gov | 916-319-0881
Last Reviewed: Friday, July 21, 2023
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