By: Troy Kuntz and Marisa Riesinger, Elementary Library Media Specialists
In this digital era, students have access to an abundance of information at their fingertips. Yet the information they encounter is not always accurate and high-quality. Students need to learn specific skills and strategies to evaluate the quality, credibility, and validity of the information. This skill set that prepares students for lifelong literacy and learning is called information literacy.
Information literacy is the ability to identify, find, evaluate, and use information effectively. Today, information literacy is often referred to as digital or media literacy. As Library Media Specialists, we work with students and staff to understand intellectual property and copyright, recognize bias and author’s purpose, and gather information using research tools. Information literacy is increasingly important as technology continues to be part of our education system and everyday life.
Students also need direct instruction on becoming responsible digital citizens. We teach students the importance of media balance which means using technology in a way that feels healthy and in balance with other life activities like spending time with family and friends, school, hobbies, and many other things. Other digital citizenship topics include cyberbullying, personal versus private information, and digital footprints. Through activities and lessons, students develop the skills and knowledge to be safe and responsible in a digital space.
The library plays a crucial role in teaching information literacy skills as students use digital and physical resources. One area of focus in elementary school is technology integration. In collaboration with the classroom teacher, we incorporate technology and online resources and databases within different curricular areas. In addition, students learn to create and share their learning through technology integration and application. This allows them to become effective consumers and producers of information.
School libraries also provide access to accurate and up-to-date physical resources such as nonfiction and informational books on various topics at all reading levels.
Now more than ever, school libraries provide opportunities for students to become lifelong learners. The school library offers the space and resources for students to build strong reading lives. From picture books to novels to informational texts, students can explore personal interests and satisfy classroom learning needs. In addition, technology and digital library resources further support the acquisition of knowledge and skills. Libraries remain the key to success as students learn to navigate information in a safe, responsible, and ethical manner.