School librarianship and macro-level policy issues: International perspectives

Individuals or professional associations interested in the development of school libraries must realize the importance of government involvement and policy-making. Policy has a significant effect on school library development worldwide because that development is driven by the official recognition inherent in legislation and formal statements. Concerned school library supporters may intervene more effectively in policy formulation and implementation if they have a basic knowledge of the limitations and complexities of policymaking. This article introduces this basic knowledge. Various policy initiatives in both developed and developing countries are explored. The issue of whether school libraries are primarily cultural or educational policy issues is addressed as well as the place of school libraries in educational reform efforts. Obstacles to the formulation of effective policy are reviewed. The article concludes with an examination of the role of professional organizations and their influence on policy-making.