I not only have the pleasure of working in the Youth Dept. of a public library, but I also work in an elementary school library (as a 1 person show). The students love coming to the library. It is the only chance some of these kids get to just pick out a book for fun. Library is not "mandatory" as it is in some parts, so teachers aren't required to bring their class. I get it, there's a lot going on with new standards, testing, interventions, etc. etc. However, seeing the disappointment on students faces when they ask why they can't come is heartbreaking. Trying to nurture that love of reading, a chance to just sit in a calm and peaceful place to read, the freedom to make a totally independent choice, to be surrounded with 100s if not 1000s of exciting possibilities is an educational experience I wish all students had. Check out the ala.org site for school libraries info and resources.
Kudos to all those librarians, media specialists, and paraprofessionals (as well as supportive school administrators) who keep school libraries as places where not only does learning never end, but where possibilities are endless.
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