As you watch the state and local news, you know that many hard budgeting decisions are being made during this challenging time. Unfortunately, many school library programs - programs that have proven and longstanding importance to student education - are being cut. School librarians, who are key in teaching students research, information literacy, and reading, are being asked to cover multiple campuses (leaving school with only part-time school library programs) or are being cut altogether.
State Level
Please contact your legislators and let them know that school libraries are critical to your child's success.
To send an email to your state representative or state senator, click on Librarians ARE Teachers and scroll down the page for an email form with taking points you can use.(For more information on school libraries, see school libraries and librarians are important.)
· Students need access to quality school library programs and research materials, such as the K-12 Database Program, which has be zeroed out in funding. (Click on K-12 Database Program link above to learn more.)
· Please let legislators know that school librarians ARE teachers. School librarians instruct students every day and work with teachers to help students meet curriculum requirements. Certified librarians hold a master's degree and must have a least two years of classroom teaching experience. Current definitions of instructional staff do not account for the work of our state's school librarians.
Local Level
At the local level, please talk with school board members and administrators about the importance of protecting school library programs and ensuring libraries are staffed with certified school librarians.
Send email and letters to district board members and administrators about the value parents place on strong school library programs.
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