Using TLA Stats and Docs to Share Successes – #tasla09
Julie Todaro, presenter
TLA recently conducted a public opinion poll of Texas voters to find out how much support there is out there for all types of libraries.
Other sources of data about school libraries:
AASL – Research and Statistics
Michael Eisenberg’s presentations
Library Media Program: Data Sources, the School Library Media Specialist
Resources for School Librarians
The TLA survey was a statewide telephone survey conducted in October – November 2008.
The survey found that nearly all Texans (99%) are an essential part of the educational experience and more than 9 in 10 agree that school librarians are critical to student achievement. The vast majority would support legislation that would require public schools to provide students with a school library and librarian that meets statewide standards. More than 8 in 10 voters across every demographic segment and geographic region support the legislation, including 88% of Republicans, 95% of Democrats and 96% of Independents.
Strong majorities support increasing public funding for school libraries!
Data from the survey shows that the general public feels that school libraries and professional give every child the opportunity to read and learn.
How can we use this data to promote school libraries?
Use it as a message to administrators, school boards, PTA groups, teachers, students, relevant associations and legislators.
Expand the Strong Libraries Strong Scores mini-conference model to other areas of the state, to other associations and organizations and with other related events.
TLA recommends focusing on the unique contribution of school libraries to round out and encourage student development and achievement. Instead of trying to be another classroom, focus on what makes us unique.
June 15th, 2009 at 2:43 pm
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