From Learners to Leaders: Empowering Student Volunteers in the School Library

Florida school librarians Mila and Haneski showcase the transformative impact of ­giving students authentic leadership roles in the ­library. Drawing on current library standards, as well as their own expertise, the authors note the many benefits of creating a group of student volunteers, including empowering students by fostering leadership skills and providing busy school librarians with more time to manage both day-to-day and high-priority tasks. They frame the benefits of student leadership through the five roles of the school librarian (leader, instructional ­partner, teacher, information specialist, and program administrator) and the profession’s core beliefs. They clearly outline how responsibility in the library helps students build critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity, resilience, respect, inclusivity, and stronger community connections. They also highlight the practical benefits for librarians who can delegate tasks, freeing themselves for higher-level work. Chapters follow a linear, easy-to-implement progression, with guidance on everything from creating a call for volunteers to letters, permission forms, checklists, and reflective rubrics. The book’s back matter offers useful tables, worksheets, posters, and other tools to support immediate adoption.