Students deserve a school library | Editorial

Published 2:09 pm Wednesday, August 22, 2012

We are profoundly sad to hear that the school’s library has been closed due to budget cuts.

Last time we checked, reading was one of the cornerstones of education. For young people to have access to a school library filled with a variety of age-appropriate books is a gift that all children should have.

The library has two staff members: a librarian, whose cost to the school is $26,991, and a library technician, whose $12,903. That number includes wages as well as benefits. We wish there could be a fundraising effort for this – the way there has been for the athletic programs. Thanks to community donations and a matching grant, kids will play fall sports this year.

Last year, the school reduced its library hours. We felt that was a reasonable action to help trim the budget. But closing it entirely? Cultivating a love and appreciation for reading is critical part of the educational process.  Providing a quiet place, on campus, for kids to study and research is valuable. Closing the library sends a message to students that reading is not crucial to the educational process.

The only saving grace is that we have an exemplary public library a few blocks from the school. We hope our kids and teachers take advantage of what it has to offer. We also hope that something will be done to reopen the doors of a very important building.