Parent involvement in elementary school libraries

Abstract

In the 21^st century, school libraries are under pressure to innovate. Library budgets are frequently slashed as districts struggle with limited fiscal resources, while library personnel are increasingly expected to provide students with resources they need to help them pass high stakes tests. In an effort to meet student needs with limited resources, many school librarians are using parent volunteers in different capacities. This dissertation explores how three school librarians in different school settings recruited, trained, and used their parent volunteers through the use of an exploratory case study. The researcher conducted observations and semi structured interviews to gain the perspectives of volunteers and librarians regarding the use of volunteers in school libraries. The collection of schedules, photographs, newsletters, and other artifacts enabled the researcher to create a description of three different library volunteer programs. This dissertation explores the motivations of volunteers who participate in volunteer programs, and describes the challenges of operating and maintaining library volunteer programs. Key findings emerged regarding the wishes of parent volunteers to develop authentic partnerships with school staff to engage students in meaningful student learning. Stakeholders interested in establishing or modifying their own volunteer programs could use this data to inform them as they structure school library volunteer programs.