Are self-perception measures used in school library research transferable to the context of public library summer reading programs?

Several instruments previously validated for use in school library research were tested for their appropriateness in the context of public libraries’ summer reading programs for youth. The researchers were also interested in whether the connection between perceived competence in one’s own information skills and perceived competence in one’s own reading skills, as found in school library research, might also exist for participants in public library summer reading programs. In addition, a separate research question explored whether youth participants connected the summer reading program to increased confidence and improvement in their reading abilities. Findings suggest that reliable measures that can be used in the context of both school and public libraries may be beneficial for future collaboration and coordination in youth programming both in and out of school. Findings also suggest that summer reading programs foster self-perceptions of improved reading ability.