As the demand for digital literacy grows, school librarians continue to lead as powerful facilitators of computer science (CS) learning. Positioned at the heart of school communities, today’s librarians are uniquely equipped to be tech leaders who guide students (and teachers) in exploring coding and computational thinking in accessible, engaging ways. 

Why It Matters

Computer science is more than coding—it’s about problem solving, logic, creativity, and collaboration. These skills align with the AASL National School Library Standards, which position learners as Inquirers, Designers, and Empowered Thinkers. School librarians already champion inquiry, innovation, and digital citizenship, making CS a natural extension of their mission. 

Dinah Wade, a school library media specialist in Franklin, TN, and a computer science champion, shared her thoughts on the role of computer science education in school library programs. 

“The library is a passageway to learning and knowledge. Computer Science has become a foundational subject for our society with the development of smartphones, artificial intelligence, computer applications, and other technologies. School Librarians see every student and teacher in the school. They have the ability to share computer science and research skills with students to ensure that they are prepared for their future workforce with agency, passion, and varying skill sets.”

Recognized for Excellence – Bring CS into Your Library with Code.org

Code.org, recently named a 2025 AASL Best Digital Tool, is nationally recognized for its impact and accessibility, especially for school librarians. This award affirms Code.org’s role as a trusted, high-quality resource for bringing computer science into school libraries and classrooms alike. You don’t need a computer science degree to get started; Code.org offers free, easy-to-use resources that make it simple to introduce CS, regardless of your background. Here are a few ways to bring CS into your program:

  • CS Fundamentals (Grades K–5): Flexible, grade-level courses that fit into monthly or quarterly rotations.
  • CS Connections (Grades 3-8): Week-long interdisciplinary modules that pair coding with subjects like ELA, math, and social studies—ideal for flexible schedules or collaboration with teachers.
  • Maker & Physical Computing Projects: Add hands-on exploration to your media program.
  • Hour of Code: Librarians across the country lead school-wide events that make CS fun and inclusive.

Wade, a long-time user of Code.org curriculum, explains how she leverages some of these tools to enhance her school’s library program:

“Two of the shared foundations of the AASL Standards reflect the importance of teaching students to think and create: ‘Learners should be prepared for college, career, and life’ as well as ‘information technologies must be appropriately integrated and equitably available.’ Code.org not only provides a computer science curriculum with CS Fundamentals that teaches all CS standards, but also provides CS Connections that helps enable librarians to integrate CS standards within other subject areas!”

Librarians as Leaders in Digital Learning

School librarians have always opened doors to knowledge—now, they’re guiding students into the digital future as creators, not just consumers with CS. In a world where technology touches every industry, school librarians are the key to ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive.

Start integrating CS into your library program—explore free resources from Code.org today!