Building capacity and continuous improvement of school libraries: The Delaware experience

Abstract

This research paper is in two parts. “Part I: The Evidence” documents the background, purpose, methodology and findings of the Delaware School Library Infrastructure Study undertaken on behalf of the Delaware Governor’s Task Force, and highlights some key issues and concerns that have formed the basis for . “Part 2: From Evidence to Action” documents the processes and professional actions involved in developing a sustainable program of improvement for school libraries in Delaware through engaging with the research evidence. This research and development process, initiated in 2005, is an ongoing evidence-based practice program engaging multiple partnerships at school district and state department of education to focus on continuous improvement and capacity building of school libraries in the state of Delaware. At its center is a process of engaging school librarians in a research-based, data-driven cycle of transforming school libraries so that they can play a central and identifiable role in curriculum implementation, student achievement, reading, and literacy development in Delaware’s schools, and to ensure that Delaware’s school libraries play a role in world class learning and literacy in the state.