The lockdown “has exacerbated pre-existing conditions” in school libraries across the UK, with revoked budgets and misunderstood or undervalued library staff, according to a new report from the School Library Association (SLA).

School libraries in confinement examines the role of school libraries before and during the Covid-19 pandemic, including analysis of hundreds of survey responses spanning two years, interviews with school library staff, and statements from senior leaders.

He revealed that the impacts of the pandemic were widespread, affecting the achievement and well-being of staff and students, with isolation a “significant” risk.

The report said it aimed “not to blame, but rather to help the sector reflect and learn so that positive steps can be taken to ensure the best possible future for school libraries” and recommended that organizations solid sectors for school librarianship are visible everywhere. the educational landscape.

He also said that school library staff need to work towards their school’s goals, while school leaders need to develop a better understanding of the role of their library and how it supports school goals.

Alison Tarrant, CEO of SLA, said: “This report is hard to read at times, and my heart goes out to everyone working in the schools during this time – all of your efforts are appreciated and valued by many. This relationship also presents a challenge – for school library staff, for SLA and those working in the school library sector, and for other educators to work towards improving the relationship, understanding and communication between teachers and their library colleagues. This is something that ALS is fully committed to, and I look forward to working with colleagues across the educational landscape to make it a reality.

Richard Gerver, ALS President, added, “If the past two years have taught us anything, it’s the vital importance of collaboration, communication and mutual support. This report highlights some significant challenges and some strong insights on how we are moving forward to best ensure that our school libraries do not just survive, but thrive and ensure the best for our children; young people who have been deprived of so many things, including the wonderful resources of a great library. What is clear is that there is work to be done and if we are committed to communicating the importance of what we are doing so that we can catalyze meaningful collaboration and support, we can and will raise the challenges we face.