If you've ever used a school library, or been helped by a school librarian, please show support for the
WE PETITION THE OBAMA ADMINISTRATION TO:
Ensure all school libraries are properly staffed, open, and available for children every day.
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My former school system, Prince George's County, Maryland, cut elementary and middle school library positions this past year, resulting in most school libraries being open just one or two days per week (most librarians are now serving two or three schools). The school libraries don't have aides, so the libraries are closed the days that the librarians aren't there.
The high schools did have aides, but this past year, those positions were cut, so currently the school librarians are doing both jobs at the high school level. Most schools have about 2,000 students, so the school system is well below state standards, but who really cares about that anymore in Prince George's County.
Now the county has decided to cut back further and the high school positions will be cut back to half time. Do you think the students and teachers will notice that the library is closed 2.5 days a week?
These library cutbacks are occurring throughout the United States. We have a chance to put this issue in front of President Obama if we can get 25,000 signatures on the petition.