This report summarizes the research studies, literature reviews and related documents on the relationship between public school students' achievement and the library media program. Research indicates students in schools with well-equipped library media centers and professional library media specialists perform better on achievement tests for reading comprehension and basic research skills (Haycock, Ken. "What Works," Rockland Press, 1992). A historical perspective is illustrated in a timeline diagram from 1876 to 2002, with research highlights, such as a summary of conclusions of the Impact of School Library Media Centers on Academic Study (1988-89) and findings of "The Power of Reading" which concludes that young people who read a lot improve comprehension. Key common findings of recent studies 1998-2001) are identified, and information literacy standards for student learning are listed. The report concludes: students are likely to earn higher reading scores if their schools have certified library media specialists; their school library media specialists are assisted by support staff; and their library media specialists play a vital instructional role, collaborating with classroom teachers. Students in schools with well-staffed library media programs averaged reading scores five to ten points higher than those without such staffing. (Contains 27 references.) (AEF)