COLLECT + CONNECT

The South Dakota State Library, a division of the SD Department of Education, has awarded thirteen school libraries the 21st Century School Library Award for 2021. This annual award recognizes school libraries as Effective, Enhanced or Exemplary, based on performance in three areas: place, which refers to the learning environment (both physical and online), programming and the professional. Applicants conduct a self-assessment and provide evidence of their ability to meet South Dakota's guidelines for school libraries. Award status is valid for a three-year period. Exemplary Award recipients: Belle Fourche Middle School Library, Belle Fourche; Librarian Karen Schlekeway, Administrator Kevin Schmidt Brookings High School Library, Brookings; Librarian Jean Kirschenman, Administrator Dr. Paul vonFischer   Flandreau Middle/High School Library, Flandreau; Librarian Lori Williams, Administrators Brian Relf, Nicole Herzog Lincoln High School Library, Sioux Falls; Librarian Mary Peters, A...

The  21st Century School Library Self-Assessment  has received minor edits including updated verbiage and revisions to  The Professional  area under Teaching Staff and Support Staff.   This voluntary school library self- assessment can aid in implementing the SD School Library Guidelines as they relate to the library place, the library program, and the librarian. This tool can also be a catalyst for conversations with stakeholders concerning future planning and development. It can also serve as a checklist toward strategic planning and annual goals with administrators. Of special note: Each year, the South Dakota State Library, a division of the SD Department of Education, formally and annually recognizes schools with libraries that meet the characteristics of a 21st Century school library through its place, professional, and program. If the overall score of a library's 21st Century School Library Self-Assessment falls within one of the three-poin...