AASL Standards for the 21st-Century Learner

Standards for the 21st-Century Learner offer vision for teaching and learning to both guide and beckon our profession as education leaders. They will both shape the library program and serve as a tool for library media specialists to use to shape the learning of students in the school. 

Common Beliefs

The learning standards begin by defining nine foundational common beliefs:

• Reading is a window to the world.
• Inquiry provides a framework for learning.
• Ethical behavior in the use of information must be taught.
• Technology skills are crucial for future employment needs. 
• Equitable access is a key component for education.
• The definition of information literacy has become more complex as resources and technologies have changed.
• The continuing expansion of information demands that all individuals acquire the thinking skills that will enable them to learn on their own.
• Learning has a social context.
• School libraries are essential to the development of learning skills.

The Standards

The Standards describe how learners use skills, resources, and tools to

1. inquire, think critically, and gain knowledge;
2. draw conclusions, make informed decisions, apply knowledge to new situations, and create new knowledge;
3. share knowledge and participate ethically and productively as members of our democratic society;
4. pursue personal and aesthetic growth.

FAQs about AASL Standards for the 21st-Century Learner

In October of 2007, AASL released its Standards for the 21st Century Learner.  Since that time, AASL has received a number of questions regarding these learning standards. Read frequently asked questions about the learning standards.

Downloading and Ordering

 You can download the Learning Standards as an eight-page full-color pamphlet:

• High resolution (pdf, 4 mb)
• Low resolution (pdf, 1.8 mb) 

 You can also purchase the Standards brochures in a packet of 12 from the ALA Online Store. Prices are $13.50 for members and $14.95 for non-members.