LETTERS: School libraries are important years ago
To the Editor:
"We in Kansas are 'seizing the moment' to show that school libraries have a direct link to student achievement. We are looking not only at reading, but also mathematics, science, social studies, and writing. A particular focus will be on the alignment of content, library and technology standards." This quote comes from a paper soon to be published and was co-authored by professionals from Emporia State University and the Kansas State Department of Education. It seems to be at direct odds with current actions by USD 408. The library media specialist at the elementary school was cut several years ago during the budget crisis. The board has decided not to fill the remaining library position for the coming school year.
The district is fortunate to have experienced aides at both the elementary and the secondary libraries who will meet the needs of students using the facilities. However, there will be a void in some very fundamental aspects of building educational resources for present and future students.
In another quote from the paper, "findings pointed to school librarians as the "information empowered" because they played three critical roles in the learning community, that of teachers, information specialists, and administrators. Statistically significant findings indicated that test scores tend to be higher where there is a librarian." A library media specialist is responsible for collaborating with teachers in understanding their curricular needs, researching available materials, ordering resources considering the diverse needs of learners and managing the budget. That is why the librarian is required to hold a valid teaching certificate and a master's degree in library and information management.
Unless USD 408 is in severe financial trouble, this seems a very reckless step and will have a negative impact on the educational quality of all students in the district. This impact will be magnified with each year the position remains unfilled. At a time when high-stakes testing is putting great stress on administrators, teachers, and students, it seems like a very poor time to be eliminating a resource as important as the library media specialist.
Diana Costello
Marion
