According to a 1999 Wallace Foundation report, libraries play a key role in "supporting the informational, educational, and literacy needs of young people in their community."

Libraries can be an important multipurpose dedicated space for youth to engage in self-directed learning that is generated by youth's interests and needs and what is most useful and compelling.

The number of English language learners (ELs) enrolled in United States' public schools increased by 51 percent in the last decade. ELs now make up 11 percent of the U.S. school population, and the number will keep increasing.