Reading words on a page is no longer enough. Students must now learn how to verify them. The newly released TIME World's Top EdTech Companies of 2026 recognizes Infobase, an information platform that scales library-level research skills into classrooms. This global recognition shows a growing agreement that finding reliable sources is just as important as basic literacy.
What Happened
According to the newly published global index by TIME and Statista, Infobase ranked in the top half of the 500 recognized educational technology companies, selected from a pool of more than 6,500 candidates. The platform is one of only two library-focused companies on the list, and the only one built specifically to address information literacy. Infobase operates widely used resource databases, including Facts on File and The World Almanac, designed to help students evaluate sources and conduct research safely. As we previously reported, modern library-focused EdTech expands limited school resources.
The Bigger Picture
Traditional literacy metrics are no longer sufficient to measure student success. While a 2025 UNESCO report shows global reading and writing rates climbing, it notes that these basic statistics do not account for the digital and analytical skills required in modern societies. The data on functional comprehension remains concerning. The OECD 2023 Survey of Adult Skills found that 26% of adults across participating countries struggle with basic comprehension of written information. Research from the National Adult Literacy Agency indicates that low foundational literacy limits adult earning potential and civic participation, while also affecting health outcomes.
International policy is shifting to address these gaps. Organizations are promoting framework systems like UNESCO's digital education guidelines that emphasize critical thinking and ethical technology use over simple digital access. Digital tools, however, are only part of the solution. A study by the Australian Library and Information Association confirms that well-resourced physical school libraries and certified teacher-librarians directly improve standardized student test scores.
What This Means for Families
For parents and teachers, learning "how to learn" is just as important as rote memorization. While software can deliver databases of vetted articles, students still need guidance to build critical thinking. As we previously covered, digital tools work best when paired with human interaction. Parents cannot rely solely on school-provided software to make children media-literate. Families and school boards should view technology as a tool to support professional librarians, not replace them.
What You Can Do
To help, you can advocate for local library funding to ensure school districts maintain certified teacher-librarians who can guide students through digital research. Encourage children to use school-provided databases like Learn360 at home, rather than relying on open search engines for homework. Finally, practice fact-checking together by asking children to find at least two independent, reliable sources for any surprising claims they see online.