National Standards for Information Literacy

More States Are Creating a 'Portrait of a Graduate.' Here's Why

In an age where data is ubiquitous and misinformation is rampant, information literacy has become a fundamental skill. National standards for information literacy are set to empower learners with the ability to access, evaluate, and use information effectively. Democracies thrive on well-informed citizens, making national standards not merely academic guidelines but pillars sustaining critical thinking and informed decision-making in society.

State Standards for Information Literacy: Information Literacy

State standards for information literacy complement national standards by addressing the specific needs of local educational systems. They serve as a blueprint for educators to tailor their instructional strategies and curriculum so that students develop these essential analytical skills. These standards are designed with a contextual understanding that aligns with regional educational goals and societal norms.

Washington State Essential Academic Learning Requirements

Teaching Digital Citizenship - California Teachers Association

Washington State has taken proactive steps to incorporate information literacy into their Essential Academic Learning Requirements. This integration ensures that students from an early age are equipped with the ability to decipher valid information from the vast resources available to them. These requirements present a framework that guides students towards becoming responsible digital citizens.

Other Information Literacy Ideas & Sites

[LM_NET Listserv]

The LM_NET listserv is a dynamic forum where nationwide school librarians converge to discuss and share resources. The diverse pool of members contributes to a rich repository of information literacy ideas that can be implemented across various educational settings. This collective wisdom is a treasure trove for those seeking to enhance their information literacy programs.

[WLMA Listserv FAQ]

Language, Literacy and Culture | UW College of Education

A crucial resource for members of the Washington Library Media Association (WLMA) is the official WLMA listserv. This platform fosters communication among school library media specialists and support staff, facilitating the exchange of topical insights and valuable experiences. The WLMA listserv stands as a testament to the collaborative spirit inherent in the librarian community.

The official WLMA listserv is

This moderated list offers various subscription options tailored to individual preferences, from receiving all messages as emails to digest forms that consolidate messages or even a subject line index for focused browsing. Subscribers can choose the mode of participation that best fits their lifestyle and workload, ensuring a personalized, engaging, and informative experience.

LM_NET Discussion Group

The LM_NET discussion group, available to school librarians nationwide, further underscores the robust nature of professional support networks. The archived discussions provide a window into the current trends and challenges faced by information guardians, showcasing the collective intellect of a wide-reaching librarian network.

Travel and Information Literacy

At first glance, travel may seem remote from the realm of information literacy. However, discerning travelers harness these same skills to navigate unfamiliar places, evaluate cultural information, and make prudent decisions. Just as librarians curate information to guide learners, travelers use information literacy to embark on journeys that expand their worldviews and bring the pages of those carefully curated library books to life. In essence, a traveler's itinerary is much like a well-organized database—purposefully planned and skillfully executed to make the most of the adventure that awaits.