School Library Standards
Instructional Guidance for School Librarians
Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
DESE’s Instructional Guidance for School Librarians, developed by librarians for librarians, helps ensure that instruction in the library remains aligned with the Missouri Learning Standards in grades K-12. For easier reference, the guidance is divided into four sections: Reading Engagement, Information Literacy, Media Literacy, and Innovation. DESE’s Instructional Guidance for School Librarians as well as Content Area Crosswalks can be found in the “Instructional Guidance for School Librarians” section on the DESE Library Media Centers web page.
Exemplary School Library Program
Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
DESE’s Exemplary School Library Program serves to highlight exemplary library programs across Missouri while also assisting all librarians in improving their programs for the benefit of students and teachers. The rubric uses 21 indicators that represent the breadth and depth of services provided by a strong school library program. Information about DESE’s Exemplary School Library Program Recognition, including the scoring guide, can be found in the “Exemplary School Library Program” section on the DESE Library Media Centers web page.
Missouri School Library Instructional Standards
Aligned to DESE’s Instructional Guidance for School Librarians and AASL’s National School Library Standards for Learners, the learning standards include Learner Expectations and Competencies at PK, K-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-10, and 11-12 grade bands. They are organized by the Big Ideas of Reading Engagement, Information Literacy, Media Literacy, and Innovation. The format is intentionally designed to support curriculum writing.
MASL Missouri School Library Instructional Standards
MASL MO School Library Learning Standards
The school library program standards include guidance around Leadership, Staffing, Environment, Instruction, and Management. They are supported by research that shows the impact of qualified school librarians and aligned to the Exemplary School Library Program rubric.