At Saint Mary’s Hall in San Antonio, Texas, the National History Day program has become a cornerstone of the school’s freshman experience, fostering critical thinking, student research skills and a deep understanding of history. School librarians are key partners in this work, guiding students through the research process and helping them build the confidence and competencies needed for long-term success.
In a recent EBSCO-sponsored webinar hosted by School Library Journal, Gerri Walls — librarian and instructional technologist at Saint Mary’s Hall — shared valuable insights for both school and public librarians who want to deepen student engagement and support more meaningful, student-driven research experiences.
What is National History Day?
National History Day (NHD) is a nationwide academic program and competition that encourages students in grades 6–12 to engage in historical research. Participants choose a historical topic related to an annual theme, conduct extensive research using primary and secondary sources, and present their findings in one of several formats: papers, exhibits, performances, documentaries or websites.
NHD promotes information literacy, analytical thinking and a deeper understanding of history. The program operates at the local, state and national levels, culminating in a national contest held each June at the University of Maryland, College Park.
How Librarians Support Student Research
For school libraries, NHD is an opportunity to build instructional partnerships and support the development of student research projects. At Saint Mary’s Hall, NHD research begins at the start of freshman year, allowing Walls to work closely with students from the beginning.
“NHD helps me forge connections with students, so they’ll feel comfortable approaching me through their four years here,” she said. “Hopefully, it paves the way for them to utilize their college librarians, too.”
By integrating high-quality library databases into the research process, librarians help students locate credible sources, develop search strategies, and build information evaluation skills. Public librarians can also support NHD by partnering with local schools, offering access to digital research tools and teaching research skills through library programs.
Fostering Student Engagement and Ownership
One of the most impactful elements of NHD is the opportunity for student ownership in research. When students choose their own topics, they become more invested in the process — leading to increased motivation, deeper learning and more thoughtful final projects.
“That freedom of choice, combined with the five format options for presenting their work, turns the assignment into a passion project for many students,” said Walls. “I've seen them produce work that goes well beyond what you'd expect from first-quarter freshmen.”
This kind of student-driven research not only supports academic competencies but also helps students explore real-world issues that align with their interests.
“That freedom of choice, combined with the five format options for presenting their work, turns the assignment into a passion project for many students.”
“That freedom of choice, combined with the five format options for presenting their work, turns the assignment into a passion project for many students.”
The Power of Library Databases
Library research databases are foundational to the NHD experience. They provide structured, reliable access to curated content — helping students avoid the pitfalls of misinformation and streamline their early-stage searching. Tools like keyword search, topic browsing, and access to primary source documents are especially valuable during complex research projects.
These academic research tools also promote digital literacy and prepare students for college-level research. When students encounter roadblocks, the support offered by databases can help them regroup and continue with confidence.
“The research process can be frustrating, but hitting a wall doesn't have to stop them in their tracks,” Walls noted.
Using Topic Browsing to Spark Inquiry
Topic browsing, a feature available in EBSCO’s Ultimate Databases for Schools and Public Libraries, can be helpful for students — especially those who feel overwhelmed or uncertain about where to begin. These tools provide access to curated, authoritative content across a wide range of subjects, making it easier for students to explore connections and narrow their research focus. This approach can support student inquiry, broaden perspectives and strengthen critical thinking. Explore these seven strategies for using topic browsing to ignite student curiosity and engagement.
At Saint Mary’s Hall, National History Day has become a powerful vehicle for developing student research ownership, promoting historical inquiry, and highlighting the essential role of library databases in student achievement. By incorporating student choice and library database tools into school research projects and library programs, librarians can prepare students for academic success and cultivate a lifelong love of learning.
