Softlink International
2024 Australian School Library Survey Report
Pages
46
Time to read
47 mins
Publication
Language
English
Pages
46
Time to read
47 mins
Publication
Language
English
The document is a report detailing the findings of the 2024 Australian School Library Survey conducted by Softlink. This annual survey has been conducted since 2010 and aims to examine key trends and topics affecting school library staff and services across various types of schools in Australia, including government, independent, and Catholic schools. The report presents data on several critical areas such as library budgets, staffing levels, the availability of digital resources, and the evolving role of school libraries in supporting student engagement and learning. It highlights significant concerns among library staff regarding budget sufficiency and staffing adequacy, with over half of respondents indicating that their library budgets are insufficient. The report also discusses the importance of diversifying library collections and the early exploration of technology and artificial intelligence in libraries. Overall, the findings emphasize the essential role of school libraries in fostering literacy, research skills, and digital fluency among students, while also underscoring the need for ongoing advocacy for resources and recognition of libraries' contributions to education.