Why School Libraries Matter More Than Ever: Supporting Your Child Who Is Struggling in School
If your child is falling behind in reading, avoiding homework, or feeling overwhelmed by school assignments, you’re not alone—and there’s a powerful, often overlooked resource that can make a real difference: a well-supported school library staffed by a certified librarian.
The 2013 AASL infographic highlighted research showing that strong school libraries correlate with higher test scores, better reading outcomes, and preparation for future success. More than a decade later, in 2025, extensive research—including over 60 studies spanning 50 years—confirms and strengthens these findings. Schools with full-time certified school librarians see consistent gains in student achievement, particularly in literacy, even after accounting for factors like poverty.
For parents of struggling students, this is especially hopeful. The benefits are often greatest for disadvantaged or at-risk children, including those from low-income families, English language learners, students with disabilities, and racial minorities.
Boosting Reading and Academic Performance
Research repeatedly shows that access to a quality school library and librarian directly improves reading scores. A 2024 report from the Center for American Progress analyzed decades of data and found that students in schools with certified librarians perform better on standardized reading and math tests. In one Pennsylvania study, schools with full-time librarians had 8-9% more students scoring “advanced” in reading.
The absence of librarians hurts outcomes: National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) scores stagnate or decline in schools that cut these positions. Recent 2025 work by researcher Keith Curry Lance in California shows teacher librarians contribute significantly to student achievement, with schools lacking them missing out on instructional leadership.
For struggling readers, librarians provide targeted support. They identify children who need help, recommend books at the right reading level (often high-interest, lower-difficulty titles to build confidence), and teach strategies like decoding or comprehension scaffolding. Studies show librarians foster reading engagement by creating welcoming spaces and guiding students toward books that spark joy—turning “I hate reading” into “I can’t put this down.”
Discover how school libraries can transform your child's struggles into strengths—unlock the secrets backed by decades of research.
Building Essential 21st-Century Skills
The infographic’s quotes about career readiness and information literacy remain spot-on. Today’s students need to find, evaluate, and use information ethically—skills school librarians teach explicitly. AASL’s ongoing CLASS II research project (updated through recent grants) demonstrates causal links between librarian-led instruction and stronger inquiry, critical thinking, and digital literacy.
Struggling students often lack confidence in research or feel lost with online sources. A librarian can guide them step-by-step, breaking tasks into manageable parts and teaching how to spot reliable information. This not only helps with current assignments but builds lifelong skills that reduce frustration and improve grades over time.
Schools with full-time certified school librarians see consistent gains in student achievement, particularly in literacy, even after accounting for factors like poverty.
Laura Lurns · Learning Success expert
Bridging the Digital Divide and Homework Gap
The infographic cited 2012 data showing 37% of Americans lacked home high-speed internet. While access has improved (around 97% of U.S. children have some home internet by 2021-2025 estimates), reliable, high-speed broadband remains uneven—particularly in low-income, rural, or minority households. Current estimates indicate 9-16 million K-12 students still face the “homework gap,” unable to complete online assignments at home reliably.
School libraries bridge this by offering computers, Wi-Fi, and quiet study spaces. Many extend hours or provide device lending. For your child who might rush through digital homework on a phone or skip it altogether, the library provides equitable access and one-on-one help from a librarian.A Safe, Supportive Space for Wellbeing
Beyond academics, school libraries serve as safe havens where struggling students can work at their own pace without judgment. Research highlights how librarians promote wellbeing by reducing stress and building a sense of belonging through book clubs, maker spaces, or casual reading time.
Key takeaways
- Boost Academic Performance: Strong school libraries with certified librarians lead to higher reading and test scores for struggling students.
- Build Essential Skills: Librarians teach critical thinking and digital literacy, helping kids tackle homework and research confidently.
- Bridge the Digital Divide: School libraries provide internet access and devices, closing gaps for students without reliable home connectivity.
What You Can Do as a Parent
- Encourage regular visits: Make the school library part of your child’s routine. Ask the librarian for personalized book recommendations or homework help.
- Partner with the librarian: Share your child’s challenges—they’re trained to collaborate with teachers and parents on interventions.
- Advocate if needed: Many schools have cut librarian positions post-pandemic. Join parent groups or speak at school board meetings, citing the evidence that librarians provide one of the highest returns on investment for student success.
- Supplement with public libraries: If your school’s library is under-resourced, local public libraries often offer similar support, including digital access and reading programs.
Investing time in your school’s library isn’t just about books—it’s about giving your child the tools, confidence, and support to turn struggles into strengths. The research is clear: Strong school libraries build strong students, and that can start with your child today.
For struggling readers, librarians provide targeted support.
Laura Lurns · Learning Success expert
The villain lurking in our education system is the persistent barrier of under-resourced libraries, robbing struggling students of vital tools for literacy, digital access, and confidence-building that leave them falling further behind. By embracing the positive values of equity, empowerment, and lifelong learning, parents can vanquish this foe through the comprehensive support of the Learning Success All Access Program, which delivers personalized resources and guidance to mirror the best of what strong libraries offer. Take the first step today by starting your free trial of the Learning Success All Access Program at https://learningsuccess.ai/all-access/.
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Your school district must evaluate your child free of charge if you ask in writing, whatever your income and whatever the outcome (US, 34 CFR 300.111 and 300.301(b)). That route takes time and answers a different question than you do. This one starts today, from what you already know.
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