Community Connections: School and Public Library Collaboration in Australia

Abstract

School and public libraries share an objective in supporting lifelong learning and literacy development of young people in their communities. This study sought to answer the following research questions: Are there examples of current partnerships and collaborations between school and public libraries in providing services to children?; What do school and public librarians perceive as their role in providing services to children?; What do school and public librarians understand is the relationship between school and
public libraries in providing services to children? Two questionnaires designed for staff in school libraries and the other for public library staff were distributed. The survey found that activities of public libraries with school libraries include mobile library visits,
outreach programs with literacy/event focus, and early childhood literacy programs. Examples of activities of school libraries with public libraries include teacher librarians encouraging students to seek resources the school is unable to provide, shared author visits, and research sessions for senior students. Further analysis will explore how public and school library staff perceptions have evolved.