Updated November 2026 · free, works in your browser
Rate each statement: Not yet, Started, Solid or Strong. Tap a selected rating again to skip the statement.
Show the formula
Each rating becomes points: Not yet = 0, Started = 1, Solid = 2, Strong = 3. Area score = total points ÷ (3 × rated statements) × 100, rounded to a whole percent. Overall score uses all rated statements the same way. Skipped statements are left out. Statements rated Not yet or Started go on the action list, lowest first.
A school library self-assessment works by rating specific statements about your program and turning the ratings into a score for each area. This free checklist covers instruction, collection, access and administration, and it gives you a prioritised action list so you know what to improve first.
How to use the checklist
- Optionally type your school or library name so the action list carries it.
- Read each of the 16 statements and choose Not yet, Started, Solid or Strong. Be honest: the list is only useful if it reflects your real situation.
- Tap a selected rating again if a statement does not apply to your school. It will be left out of the score.
- Check the overall score and the four area scores. They update as you change ratings.
- Read the action list, which puts the weakest statements first, and copy the link to save or share your result.
How it is calculated
Each rating is converted to points: Not yet is 0, Started is 1, Solid is 2 and Strong is 3. For each area the score is the total points divided by the maximum possible points for the statements you rated, multiplied by 100 and rounded to a whole percent.
Area score = points earned ÷ (3 × rated statements) × 100. The overall score uses every rated statement in the same way. The four areas follow the common structure of school library program standards: teaching and learning, collection management, access to resources and spaces, and program administration. This tool is a planning aid based on that general structure, not an official accreditation instrument.
What the overall score suggests
| Overall score | Level | Suggested focus |
|---|---|---|
| 0 to 39% | Early stage | Choose two or three basic actions and write down program goals |
| 40 to 69% | Developing | Strengthen the weakest area and gather evidence of impact |
| 70 to 100% | Established | Keep reviewing yearly and share what works with colleagues |
Frequently asked questions
How often should I assess my library program?
Once a year is a practical rhythm, ideally before you set goals and a budget for the next school year. Comparing results over time shows whether your actions made a difference.
What are library media program objectives?
They are the written goals that describe what the library program should achieve for students and staff, such as teaching research skills, keeping the collection current and ensuring fair access. The administration statements in this checklist help you check that such goals exist and are reviewed.
Should I rate the program alone or with others?
You can start alone, but asking a teacher or administrator to rate the same statements often reveals different views. Comparing them makes a good starting point for planning.
Is a low score a problem?
No. A low score in one area simply shows where the next effort will matter most. Many programs are strong in access and still developing in instruction or reporting.
Is my data saved anywhere?
No. The ratings stay in your browser. The shareable link stores them only inside the link itself.
Taking your plan on the road
Many librarians use conferences, school visits and study trips to see how other programs work. A printed action list or a saved link makes those conversations more focused, and choosing accommodation close to the venue helps you fit sessions, visits and reflection into a short trip.
Other tools
- Information Literacy Skills ChecklistPick a grade band, tick the information literacy skills already taught and see progress with the gaps highlighted.
- Reading Level CalculatorPaste a text and see its Flesch-Kincaid grade level, reading ease score, and word, sentence and syllable counts.
- Citation GeneratorTurn book or website details into a formatted APA, MLA or Chicago reference and in-text citation.
This is an independent guide. It is not affiliated with Washington Library Media Association.