The School Library Benefits Everyone: Technology, Approaches, and Resources for Serving Students with Special Needs

Abstract

Teachers serving students with disabilities often rely on the school library because of the diversity of resources, its positive association for many students, and the perception that it facilitates individualized attention. Media specialists and educators report that teachers typically send students with disabilities to the school library during “class-time” to complete individual or small group projects; reduce classroom disruptions; provide an opportunity to focus or “calm down;” provide access to alternative curriculum and instruction; and as a reward for positive behavior. The power of the school library program and the media specialist to improve student achievement is well documented. While this research does not specifically address students with special needs, it is highly likely that they can experience the same positive impact as their non-disabled peers if the school library has adaptive technology and the media specialist provides instructional accommodations to meet their needs. This chapter presents the impact of different disabling conditions on students’ learning and functioning, and discusses evidenced-based solutions for meeting the needs of exceptional students. The chapter summarizes the current literature on assistive technology for the school library program and describes informative resources, essential technologies, and implementation strategies. The chapter concludes with resources and approaches for collaborating with special educators and other specialists on behalf of students with special needs.