International School Libraries Month

International School Libraries Month: Celebrating the Heart of Learning

International School Libraries Month is an annual celebration that takes place every October, highlighting the vital role of school libraries in education and fostering a love for reading and learning among students worldwide.

Quick Facts

When is it?: October
Tagged as: Education, Literacy, Libraries
What’s the hashtag?: #ISLM
When was it founded?: 1999 (as International School Library Day)
Who founded it?: International Association of School Librarianship (IASL)

History of International School Libraries Month

International School Libraries Month evolved from International School Library Day, which was first proclaimed in 1999 by IASL President Blanche Woolls. Initially celebrated on the fourth Monday of October, it was later expanded to a month-long observance in 2008 to provide more flexibility for schools worldwide to participate.

Timeline

1999: International School Library Day is established
2008: The celebration is extended to International School Library Month
2014: The theme “Your School Library: Mind-Map Central” is introduced
2023: The theme “School Libraries: Community Connectors” is celebrated

International School Libraries Month Dates

Year	Month and Date	Day
2025	October 1	Wednesday
2026	October 1	Thursday
2027	October 1	Friday
2028	October 1	Sunday
2029	October 1	Monday
2030	October 1	Tuesday

Observed International School Libraries Month

International School Libraries Month is observed globally by schools, libraries, and educational institutions. The celebration aims to promote the importance of school libraries in supporting student learning, literacy, and overall educational development.

During this month, schools organize various activities such as book fairs, author visits, reading challenges, and special library events. These initiatives encourage students to explore the resources available in their school libraries and develop a lifelong love for reading and learning.

The International Association of School Librarianship provides themes and resources each year to guide celebrations and activities, ensuring that the month remains relevant and engaging for students and educators alike.

Fun Facts About International School Libraries Month

The celebration started as a single day and later expanded to a full month.
Each year has a unique theme to inspire activities and discussions.
Schools from over 100 countries participate in the celebrations.
The month promotes both physical and digital library resources.
It encourages collaboration between librarians, teachers, and students.

Quiz

In which month is International School Libraries Month celebrated?
Who founded International School Library Day?
What year did the celebration expand to a full month?
What was the theme for International School Libraries Month in 2023?
How many countries typically participate in the celebrations?

(Answers: 1. October, 2. Blanche Woolls, 3. 2008, 4. “School Libraries: Community Connectors”, 5. Over 100)

FAQs

What is the purpose of International School Libraries Month?
It aims to celebrate and promote the importance of school libraries in education and literacy development.

How can schools participate in International School Libraries Month?
Schools can organize book fairs, author visits, reading challenges, and special library events to engage students.

Is there a specific theme for each year’s celebration?
Yes, the International Association of School Librarianship provides an annual theme to guide activities and discussions.

Can public libraries participate in International School Libraries Month?
While the focus is on school libraries, public libraries can collaborate with schools to support the celebration.

How does International School Libraries Month benefit students?
It encourages students to explore library resources, develop reading habits, and appreciate the value of libraries in their education.

Importance of International School Libraries Month

International School Libraries Month plays a crucial role in highlighting the significance of school libraries as centers of learning and information. It reminds educators, students, and communities of the invaluable resources and support that school libraries provide in fostering academic success and personal growth.

This month-long celebration encourages schools to showcase their library services, promote reading and research skills, and demonstrate how libraries contribute to students’ overall educational experience. It also provides an opportunity for librarians to collaborate with teachers, enhancing the integration of library resources into the curriculum.

Moreover, International School Libraries Month helps raise awareness about the need for well-funded and well-staffed school libraries, ensuring that students have access to quality resources and guidance in navigating the ever-expanding world of information.