ABSTRACT
Although public librarians worldwide have helped students with their school assignments for decades, the concept of providing formal “homework centers,” where young people can get in-depth one-on-one assistance with their studies, was not fully realized until the 1990s. The most effective after-school homework programs are those that offer: staff or volunteers that are trained to provide homework assistance; space designated for student use during specific days and times; and a collection of multiformat materials that meet curricular needs. Research has shown that students feel safe and comfortable studying in the library. They also acquire important relationship skills by working on school assignments with peers and adults. Library staff, too, benefit from homework centers because they focus youngsters’ energies on studying instead of creating havoc.
