Organised by the SLA, written by Emily Davison-Cripps and generously funded by the 2020 Patrons' Appeal. Our sincere thanks go to them for allowing this report to be created. 

This report examines the role of school libraries before and during the COVID-19 pandemic, at a point when everything was changing and when schools, leadership, and the government were facing exceptional challenges. It presents and discusses the findings of research conducted by the School Library Association with a range of UK library staff in the context of pre and post lockdown. The purpose of this report is not to assign blame to any individuals or groups, but simply to reflect and learn.

“Some have said we are all in the same boat, which I strongly disagree. The storm has been the same, but our boats have looked very different.” (Interview 8) 

“I am under no illusion that a librarian is a privilege to have in schools and not considered a necessity.” (Survey 2020) 

KEY FINDINGS

  • The impact on the mental wellbeing of school library staff was significant. 
  • School library staff found themselves in a wide range of situations; the lockdown exacerbated pre-existing conditions.
  • The impacts of the pandemic were wide ranging, impacting staff and pupils’ attainment and wellbeing.
  • In some cases, budgets were revoked while in others additional funding was provided.
  • Although school library staff are often used to working independently, isolation was a significant risk during this time.
  • Schools where the role (or potential role) of library staff was misunderstood or undervalued were less likely to utilise them during this time.

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