Executive Summary: Strategies to Support the U.S. School Libraries Developed at ALA’s “Fight for School Libraries” Summit

From ALA:

An executive summary released by the American Library Association (ALA) identifies systematic ways ALA, its divisions and offices, and the field of librarianship can support the nation’s school libraries. The strategies were developed by school, public and academic library leaders from across the country during the “Fight for School Libraries” summit convened by 2017-2018 ALA President Jim Neal.
The summary calls for ALA members and ALA staff, including all divisions, to demonstrate support for school libraries as possibilities arise within the association. Strategies include collecting quality data on standards and policies regarding school library staffing, funding and accreditation; developing compelling stories and messages for national and local community audiences; strengthening partnerships with public and academic libraries to further build support; and implementing support for school libraries consistently into political advocacy work.
An executive summary released by the American Library Association (ALA) identifies systematic ways ALA, its divisions and offices, and the field of librarianship can support the nation’s school libraries. The strategies were developed by school, public and academic library leaders from across the country during the “Fight for School Libraries” summit convened by 2017-2018 ALA President Jim Neal.
The summary calls for ALA members and ALA staff, including all divisions, to demonstrate support for school libraries as possibilities arise within the association. Strategies include collecting quality data on standards and policies regarding school library staffing, funding and accreditation; developing compelling stories and messages for national and local community audiences; strengthening partnerships with public and academic libraries to further build support; and implementing support for school libraries consistently into political advocacy work.
Recognizing the need for urgent action to combat cuts in school library funding, staffing and programming, Neal tasked participants of the May 2018 summit with creating an ALA-wide strategy to support school libraries, school library workers, the American Association of School Librarians (AASL), and the learners and communities school libraries serve.

Direct to Executive Summary (2 pages; PDF)
Direct to Complete News Release

Filed under: Academic Libraries, Associations and Organizations, Data Files, Funding, Libraries, News, School Libraries