The School Library Media Program and Special Education Programs

by Allen, Kendra L.

This study examines the relationship between school library media programs and special education programs in the context of meeting the unique needs of students with disabilities. Library media specialists in a large public school system in North Carolina were surveyed on how they gather information about best practices in special education and students enrolled in special education programs, what services and instructional accommodations they provide, and how they collaborate with special education teachers. Participating library media specialists work at the elementary, middle, and high school levels.

The survey results indicate low confidence among library media specialists in their knowledge of special education practices; however, there is a strong preference to learn more from special education professionals in their schools through means like school-sponsored professional development. Results also show efforts being made to provide services and accommodations as well as to collaborate to improve student learning.