Librarians need to stay in libraries

I have read with marked interest of the middle school librarians who are being moved into classrooms in Stanwood. (June 14 article, “Stanwood parents hope to keep school libraries staffed.”)

This is also happening in the Lakewood School District to all three elementary schools and middle school — much to the chagrin of teachers and parents alike! There will only be a part-time certificated librarian in all four schools.

I am a substitute teacher in the Lakewood district and know all of the librarians affected and have filled in for them many times. The elementary librarians have more than 600 books coming in and out of their libraries weekly. In addition to instructing students on how to research printed material, websites and databases, they run book fairs, reading-at-home programs, schedule special instructional time for classes … all on top of choosing quality books to enhance the school’s curriculum.

I was at the awards assembly at English Crossing Elementary and saw approximately one-third of the students stand and be recognized for participating in the special series reading program that started in January. Now with two librarians covering four schools, even with an aide, they will be stretched too thin trying to maintain quality programs for K-6 and K-8 grades.

Certificated librarians need to stay in the libraries! If their instruction time falls, I’m afraid our children’s reading scores will, too.

Alisa Roebke

Marysville