Highly Effective Schools Through Libraries (HESTL)

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What is the Highly Effective Schools Through Libraries Program?

Highly Effective Schools Through Libraries (HESTL) is a credentialing program with a dual purpose:

To recognize outstanding school library programs and school library professionals.
To provide guidance in school librarianship best practices.

Highly Effective Schools Through Libraries Flag

A highly effective school library program benefits every learner in the school community. Highly effective school librarians lead information, media and digital literacy instruction, manage the school library print collection and digital resources, and promote a school culture of independent reading and lifelong learning.

The What Is a Highly Effective School Librarian? Information Sheet defines the five areas of highly effective school librarianship: planning, instruction, leadership, management and environment.

The What Is a Highly Effective School Librarian? Video illustrates teacher librarian impact with interviews of district leaders, school leaders, teacher librarians, classroom teachers, and students.

HESTL School Designation

Teacher librarians who earn the five credentials of Planning, Instruction, Leadership, Management and Environment are awarded the HESTL School designation, a joint recognition of the teacher librarian and school.

Current HESTL Designations and Principal Collaboration Credential Recipients