What relationship did Lance's "Colorado Study" suggest between library media centers and student outcomes?

The "Colorado Study," conducted by Lance and his colleagues, indicated a direct correlation between well-staffed and equipped library media centers and positive student outcomes. This research demonstrated that schools with strong library programs—characterized by qualified librarians, accessible resources, and active programs—tended to see higher student achievement scores, improved overall literacy rates, and better-completed homework assignments. The study highlighted that effective library services play a significant role in fostering an environment conducive to learning and academic success.

The focus of the study was on how increased access to library resources, in conjunction with effective instruction and support from trained librarians, positively influenced students' educational experiences. As a result, having better resources and services in library media centers is not just an enhancement but has a measurable impact on student performance.