School libraries key in teaching information skills

When school media specialists and educators make an effort to become familiar with the social-networking web sites and technologies that today's students use each day, they can forge important learning connections with their students. "School library media specialists are crucial to the teaching and learning process," said Cassandra Barnett, American Association of School Librarians President. "It's not enough for kids to know how to read anymore; they must be savvy in a multitude of literacies essential in managing information." Barnett said today's school libraries have become interactive media centers with a plethora of learning tools and opportunities.