The following information is being posted on behalf of the California Campaign for Strong School Libraries

The key message for new parents is that children grow fast. It is hard to image a talkative little toddler marching off to first grade, reading aloud, or even quietly studying in the library. It is even harder to actively learn about and fight for quality schools while hugging our precious preschoolers. Young parents and grandparents need to jump into the fray early.

Demand strong school libraries.

Please note: when K-8 schools cut hours for teacher librarians or replace librarians with part-time aides or volunteers, students are NOT PREPARED for high school. When high schools split librarians between two or three schools, why do colleges wonder why students can't do college-level research or use libraries? Institutions of higher education as well as parents must DEMAND strong K-12 school libraries.

How does my library measure up?

There are now minimum national and state standards for curriculum that should be taught at each grade so ask if school libraries in your community meet the minimum school library standards. If the standards are not being met, ask how you can help the district move forward on this important educational element. Show that you are serious. Ask for the school district plan, or how to get on the committee to update the plan. If school library programs are getting reduced or staff eliminated, oppose those cuts. This is not just about buying new books or computers, it is about having a vibrant, strong school library for students today and tomorrow.

See these resources:

•    California Campaign for Strong School Libraries
•    Circulate this: Stories from the School Library

•    What is a strong school Library? Learn what questions to ask and demand one for your children
•    Read the research

Purchase library wall stickers

Purchase t-shirts, mugs and more

{More than 20 illustrators and author/illustrators donated their designs for this campaign}