Washington Library Media Association - Sasquatch Award

The Sasquatch Reading Award

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The Sasquatch Reading Award is a prominent initiative by the Washington Library Media Association (WLMA) designed to engage young readers and cultivate a love for literature. It recognizes outstanding children's books and encourages students to become vibrant, critical readers by participating in the voting process for their favorite book.

Get Involved in WLMA

Becoming a part of WLMA offers librarians, educators, and reading enthusiasts a platform to contribute to the promotion of literacy and information proficiency in schools. Through initiatives like the Sasquatch Award and various professional development opportunities, members can share resources, collaborate on projects, and stay abreast of the latest trends in library media.

WCCPBA Book Award Honor Certificate

WLMA also extends recognition to excellent picture books through the WCCPBA Book Award. An Honor Certificate is awarded to creators of distinguished books, thus encouraging the production of quality reading material for younger audiences.

Web 2.0 Interactive Washington Learns

Emphasizing the integration of technology in learning, Web 2.0 tools are advocated by WLMA for enhancing the interactive learning experience. These tools facilitate the active engagement of students in Social Studies through Collaborative Based Assessments (CBAs).

Research Retreat and Culminating Project

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The WLMA offers a Research Retreat designed to assist educators in developing comprehensive culminating projects that foster higher-order thinking and information literacy skills.

The Role of the Librarian in Student Information Literacy

The librarian's role is pivotal in engendering student information literacy. To be essential to the learning process, WLMA recommends a proactive approach, emphasizing the librarian's collaboration with both administration and classroom teachers to incorporate information literacy skills throughout the curriculum.

Information Literacy Models

Big Six Skills and the Research Cycle are among the models WLMA promotes for developing essential information literacy skills. These models provide a structured approach to help students and educators alike navigate the vast terrain of information available today.

Sample Information Literacy Curricula

From the Everett Public Schools to the Mankato Public Schools, various curricula embody the principles of information literacy. These programs are tailored to align with technology and library standards, ensuring students are well-prepared for the digital age.

Theory into Practice

Practical applications, such as Big6 Lesson Plan Ideas and WebQuests, translate information literacy theory into classroom practice. These instructional strategies bolster critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, essential components of a robust education in the 21st century.

Evaluating Information Sources

WLMA emphasizes the importance of evaluating information sources, cultivating discernment in students to assess the accuracy, authority, and bias of information, be it from the internet or traditional media.

WLMA Conference and Internet Safety

The annual WLMA Conference equips educators with current knowledge on internet safety, helping them to guide students in navigating online spaces responsibly. This conference is a convergence point for sharing best practices and fostering a community that values and advances information literacy.

In conclusion, the intertwined threads of reading, learning, and traveling through the realms of information are intrinsic to the WLMA's mission. Just as travelers prepare to navigate unknown territories, WLMA equips students and educators with the compass of information literacy, ensuring that their journey through the vast landscape of knowledge is both enriching and secure.