Learners & Families
UNDERSTANDING LEARNING IN THE SCHOOL LIBRARY
The school library is more than books—it’s where learners ask questions, explore ideas, think critically, and grow as readers and researchers. This page shares simple explanations and resources for students, parents, guardians, and community members about how the AASL Standards support learning. School librarians may also find these materials helpful to share with the communities they serve.
How Students Learn in the School Library
In today’s school libraries, students are building skills that help them to succeed in school, careers, and community life. Families may see these skills develop. Using family-friendly language to describe the AASL Standards helps make learning visible, meaningful, and accessible during open houses and in everyday conversations. Hover over the learning domains below to see the library-cultivated skills families may notice their students practicing.
Think
Students ask questions, explore ideas, find and use information to better understand the world around them.
THINK
Families may notice students:
- Asking thoughtful questions
- Showing curiosity about topics and ideas
- Looking for information from different sources
- Explaining their thinking and making connections
- Becoming more independent problem-solvers
Create
Students solve problems, develop new ideas, and show their learning in creative and meaningful ways.
CREATE
Families may notice students:
- Designing projects or presentations
- Using creativity to solve problems
- Sharing original ideas
- Trying different ways to express learning
- Using technology and media to create something new
Share
Students work with others, communicate clearly, and contribute responsibly to their school and community.
SHARE
Families may notice students:
- Working collaboratively with classmates
- Discussing ideas respectfully
- Sharing learning with others
- Giving and receiving feedback
- Using digital tools responsibly and thoughtfully
Grow
Students reflect on learning, build confidence, and develop skills and knowledge throughout their lives.
GROW
Families may notice students:
- Reflecting on successes and challenges
- Building confidence in their abilities
- Setting goals for learning
- Persevering through difficult tasks
- Developing interests that continue beyond school
ADMINISTRATORS REFLECT SERIES
Safe Spaces for Learning
Hear from district superintendent Sean Doherty about why families and communities value the work happening in today’s school libraries. This video highlights how school librarians support learners in developing safe, ethical, and responsible behaviors with information and online.
From Classroom to Community
Share this accessible one-pager to highlight how school libraries support curiosity, critical thinking, collaboration, and engaged citizenship. Ideal for open houses, newsletters, advocacy efforts, and community outreach.
Strengthening School Library Connections
Building Bridges helps school librarians use the AASL Standards to strengthen relationships with learners, families, educators, administrators, and community members. Grounded in the Shared Foundations, this advocacy resource offers strategies for communicating impact, building trust, and connecting student learning to the priorities that matter most to stakeholders.
Building Foundations for Lifelong Learning
These resources can help students, parents, guardians, and community members connect the Shared Foundations to the skills, mindsets, and behaviors developed as learners explore ideas, create new understanding, and work with others on projects in the school library.
Infographics
Explore the six Shared Foundations through easy-to-understand infographics that highlight key skills and practical learning applications.
Student Voices
Hear directly from learners how the Shared Foundations shape their thinking, creativity, collaboration, and growth in the school library.
Share the Standards
