The researchers conducting these studies controlled for other possible factors influencing test scores such as overall school expenditures per pupil, class size, poverty, race, ethnicity, and adult educational attainment in the community. High-stakes testing and accountability seem to be the only way for educators to prove the worth of a program. There is empirical proof that school libraries matter. There is every indication that investing in a school library will bring about higher test scores. Yes, we do have the proof about school libraries and higher test scores, but we really shouldn't need that proof.
School libraries make a difference in the lives of children.
It should be that simple. Reading this, I was reminded of what Kozol said on a PBS special based on his book Savage Inequalities . Books in beautiful school libraries developed with the artfulness of skilled librarians remain the clearest window to a world of noncommercial satisfactions and enticements that most children in poor neighborhoods will ever know. I recently visited a school in a poor neighborhood. There were good books, several computer work stations, a storytelling area, and comfortable sofas and chairs.