Canberra, 15 August: Concerns are being raised about the decline in school libraries as national NAPLAN scores released today show that one in three Australian school students are not meeting literacy and numeracy benchmarks, and more than one in ten are so far behind they need additional support.
The evidence is clear that when students read more their literacy improves. School libraries play an essential role in developing lifelong readers, fostering a love of reading, giving students the skills they need to achieve learning outcomes and providing a safe and supportive space to build healthy and sustainable reading habits.
We know, however, that not all schools have a school library. This is despite the link between low literacy and low or no borrowing shown in this year’s Progress in International Reading Literacy Study (PIRLS).
“Urgent action is needed to ensure that all students have access to a well-resourced school library run by qualified staff. Without this, teachers, parents and the whole community face an uphill battle to encourage a reading culture in our young people” said ALIA CEO Cathie Warburton.
“Schools with a qualified teacher librarian are more likely to have improved student literacy outcomes. If we are serious about addressing literacy levels, we need to be serious about restoring school libraries. School libraries build brighter futures for students. A school library should never be an optional extra”.
According to recent research collated by Australia Reads, children who have access to books show a greater inclination to read for pleasure and, in turn, have more advanced literacy skills as adolescents. Reading also has proven positive effects on mental health and self-esteem, with 74% of children agreeing that reading is a way to help them understand the world.
"The latest NAPLAN results show that too many Australian children are missing out on the life-changing benefits of reading. We need a national reading engagement policy, and investment in reading programs, campaigns, and infrastructure to change this trajectory, and build a stronger reading culture for the future," says Rebecca Slater from Australia Reads.
On the eve of Australian School Library Day and the CBCA Children’s Book Week®, it is time to shine the spotlight on the essential work of school libraries and join in the call for every student to be able to enjoy a library at their school. You can find more information and resources on the Students Need School Libraries website and the ALIA website.