The School Librarian and Student Achievement: Leveraging the Possibilities of Action Research

• In Event: Practitioner Inquiry as a (Re)Imagined Space: Action Researchers’ Voices From the Field — Envisioning Possibilities

Abstract

This study qualitatively examines how one school district enabled its school librarians to enhance their library programs with action research. Through the incorporation of action research into their programming, librarians were empowered to design and execute unique and impactful initiatives at their schools. Results from these action research studies indicate that in addition to improved reading scores, their programs fostered reading interest, 21st century skills, global citizenship, digital literacy, and student engagement. Findings demonstrated that the librarians valued action research and utilization of qualitative data for improved practice. Moreover, they were able to collaborate closely with colleagues and garnered recognition for their role at the school and their library programs. Implications are made for the value of librarians in schools.

Authors

• Danielle Cadieux Boulden, North Carolina State University

• Lauren Pellegrino, North Carolina State University