LASD Libraries At-A-Glance

Every LASD school has a library and an LAEF-funded librarian who oversees an extensive, well-curated, up-to-date collection of books. Students are empowered to read enthusiastically, think critically, and develop research skills. 

Our school libraries are popular community spaces where students gather with friends during recess or lunch, play games, and relax.

"It’s critical for young people to have a space where they can see themselves and their experiences reflected in books, and where they can be exposed to different perspectives and ideas.” – Neil Gaiman

Librarians help students develop a passion for reading, investigate topics that interest them, and foster a love of learning. Students who read for enjoyment will be on their way to becoming lifelong readers. An added benefit is that they will improve their writing skills and vocabulary. 

Librarians teach students to use information and technology to answer questions, solve problems, and increase understanding. Students learn to assess the credibility of information and practice its ethical and safe use. 

Each elementary school librarian is in the unique position of interacting with every student on campus throughout their entire TK-6th grade school journey, seeing them grow as readers. Elementary school libraries are open every day at lunch and recess. Students can get reading recommendations, check out books, and enjoy a quiet community space to hang out.

TK-3rd graders visit the library with their class on a weekly basis. 4th-6th graders visit the library with their class 2-4 times a month, sometimes focusing on special projects.  

"Every time I come to the library to read, I find a new world in every book." – Blach student 

Junior high school libraries are open all day, including brunch and lunch, and for an hour after school Monday through Thursday. Classes like English occasionally come to the library for projects, and books supporting the curriculum are displayed or brought to classrooms.

LASD Libraries At-A-Glance

LASD librarians create a robust learning experience for all LASD students by:

• crafting lessons for each grade that teach the established California Library Standards.
• partnering with LASD teachers to complement classroom learning, including purchasing titles and providing classroom books for research, extension, or English language support.
• researching which books to purchase and spending their annual budget to provide up-to-date and relevant collections. 

Students are taught how to use their Chromebooks to:

• check out ebooks and audiobooks through the public and school libraries.
• search for books by author, subject, or title, read and write book reviews, and more.
• access and search a research database.

School Libraries … More Than Checking Out Books

LASD's support of the library program is an integral component of the LASD student experience commitments, which include: Rich Learning Experiences, Environments Filled with Safety and Belonging; Development of Skills, Mindsets, and Habits; and Positive Developmental Relationships. 

Fostering Wonder: Librarians Can Help Sustain This Vital Aspect of Learning