A study of primary school library facilities in Newfoundland

Butler, Beverley Thomas (1975) A study of primary school library facilities in Newfoundland. Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

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Abstract

This study was designed to determine whether library services to primary pupils in Newfoundland schools were adequate. The main purpose of the investigation was to determine the extent and usage of primary school library facilities in selected schools throughout Newfoundland. If necessary, guidelines for the improvement and expansion of primary school library facilities and materials would be established. -- The data for this study were obtained through a questionnaire constructed by the investigator and mailed to principals of 100 randomly selected primary, primary and elementary, and all-grade schools in Newfoundland. The questionnaire consisted of six sections and solicited information on the physical characteristics, finances, supervision, professional qualifications, maintenance and utilization of print materials of selected schools. Sixty-five percent of the questionnaires were returned completed and usable for analysis. -- An analysis of the data showed that the library service to primary pupils was inadequate. A comparison with minimum standards recommended by the Canadian School Library Association showed that most of the schools in this study were well below the minimum standards in terms of materials, financing, personnel and facilities. Notes which accompanied many of the questionnaires indicated that the principals were, in general, well aware of the importance of good library services but, because of a lack of funds, were unable to remedy the situation. -- The most important recommendations of this study were: (1) more funds must be allocated for the construction of new, and the improvement of old, library facilities; (2) the teacher allocation system should be changed so that each school can obtain a full-time or part-time professional supervisor of library facilities; (3) the definition of the school library grant should be clarified to avoid misinterpretation; (4) the library grant should be significantly increased; (5) school boards should provide well-equipped resource centers at the district level which are accessible to all teachers; (6) school boards should establish more in-service training for teachers connected with library facilities; and (7) each school should set up regular library classes in order that pupils may become more proficient in their use and understanding of library facilities.

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