As a foundational element of schooling, learning to read and reading to learn is every bit as important in the 21st century as it has ever been. Whether interacting online, doing assignments, taking tests, or social networking, the ability to read and read well affects every part of one's existence and often predicts success throughout life. In…

This overview of school librarianship in Canada focuses on the aim of the school library program, the school librarian's role as teacher-librarian, guidelines and standards for effective service, and district support services. A list of selected readings on these issues is provided. (EJS)

Discussion of teacher-librarians in Canadian schools focuses on "Partners in Action," a document of the Ontario Ministry of Education that addresses the role of the school library media program. School funding is discussed, and results of a survey of school libraries in Ontario are described. (LRW)

This study examines the meaning of the concept of "principal support" from the point of view of seven teacher-librarians in two Alberta (Canada) school districts. It also explores the different ways in which these teacher-librarians went about increasing principal support for the school library program and for their role as…

Discussion of program advocacy in schools focuses on the role of the teacher-librarian in cooperation with the classroom teacher and the principal. A program in Ontario called "Partners in Action" is described; leadership skills are discussed; and program advocacy strategies are suggested at the school and system levels. (Contains 10…

Highlights the major professional and personal competencies necessary for teacher-librarians that were developed by the Association for Teacher-Librarianship in Canada (ATLC) and the Canadian School Library Association (CSLA). Topics include the role of the teacher-librarian, impact on school culture and student achievement, collaboration with…

The implication of an ever-increasing knowledge base is that students will need to know how to select, evaluate, and utilize information. In response, a resource-based approach to learning which emphasizes learning how to learn has been recommended in curriculum guides in Newfoundland from kindergarten through the final year of secondary school,…

Describes the development of K-12 computer networks in the United States and Canada. Discusses a project that used participatory design to introduce Internet classroom activities, and examines the role of school librarians. Findings suggest schools of information science must offer support to schools seeking Internet resources and applications.…

Canada has tried many combinations of school-housed public libraries, and in general, both school and public library authorities agree that the combination has not successfully met the requirements for service of the two distinct institutions, each with its differing roles and goals. This statement on the school-housed public library in Alberta is…

Includes 17 articles that address the role of Canadian teacher-librarians in the future. Highlights include curriculum development; instructional leadership; international perspectives; educating teacher-librarians; administrative support; teaching information literacy; the UNESCO school library manifesto; Ontario's school library information…

In collaboration with teachers, teacher librarians have a positive impact on student achievement in content areas, information literacy, and reading motivation and ability. Current professional issues of teacher librarians include role clarification, appropriate preservice education, standards for student information literacy, articulation of…

A symposium explored recent public policy trends related to Canadian school libraries; the position of the school library as part of the educational process; and the school library's current and future roles in using old and new technologies to enable students to develop their information skills, ability to conduct research, problem-solving…

Three articles addressing importance of school libraries include evaluation of 65 programs in Calgary, Canada; comparative study of school librarian attitudes in 10 countries; and statement concerning British Columbia school libraries. Bibliography on cable television for librarians is included. (Dyad Services, PO Box 4696, Station D, London,…

This paper examines "Information Power: Guidelines for School Library Media" ("Guidelines"), a key document published by the American Association of School Librarians (AASL) and the Association for Educational Communications and Technology (AECT) that proposes changes in school library media development in the United States and…

Discusses areas that need to be addressed in developing revised, enlarged, and futuristic standards to guide Canadian school media programs. These include impact of technology, relationship of school library to learning, role of personnel, staff development, collection development and evaluation, information equity, appropriate facilities, and who…