As has happened in other states, cash-strapped schools in Washington state are dropping librarians to save money: This year, Federal Way cut 20 librarian positions. Spokane reduced 10 librarians to half-time. Darrington cut two librarians. A school in Marysville eliminated its half-time librarian.
Libraries are open fewer hours, programs minimized, jobs combined. In many cases, part-timers with little formal library training are replacing skilled veterans. In rural Pomeroy, a school now employs a combination custodian-librarian — she opens the library after cleaning the locker rooms.
I am just starting out as a
I am just starting out as a public middle school librarian. I have taught in the school I work for 17 years and love my school and students. I can’t imagine having a library without a qualified librarian, a person who loves books, kids/patrons, and the job itself. What recourse do the areas you describe have to halt the loss of such a valuable resource?
it’s bleak
Unless you or the admin. of the school or district can find the money somewhere else or get outside funding I don’t think there is much you can do.
The only way to stop a gov. body from cutting something is to replace the money or generate such a sh*tstorm that they are afraid to cut.