LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – In an announcement that has left many parents, students, and library enthusiasts upset and in disbelief, the Lansing School District has revealed plans to eliminate certified, full-time librarians from its K-8 schools starting the 2024-2025 school year.

A New chapter or closing the book?

According to the Lansing State Journal, this controversial decision was conveyed by Lansing Schools Education Association (LSEA) President Chuck Alberts in a May 22nd newsletter, stating the administration’s intent to swap out library positions for more art, music, and PE slots, leaving the LSEA powerless to oppose this reorganization.

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Superintendent Ben Shuldiner and Lansing School Board members have decided to mostly keep their lips sealed on the matter, labeling it an “internal personnel issue.” Meanwhile, the local library-loving populace is up in arms, demanding the preservation of these vital educational roles.

Turning a new page: parents and students speak out.

Heidi Frei, a concerned parent, learned of the library cull through her daughter Marisol, who returned home distressed after hearing that Lewton Elementary’s beloved librarian would be departing.

Lewton librarian Dustin McConnell broke the news to parents in a heartfelt letter on June 7th, expressing his disappointment about not returning in the same role.

Frei said that redesign blueprints for Lewton don’t even include a library, favoring classroom book pods instead. Frei voiced her frustration, emphasizing that while having books in classrooms is beneficial, they can’t replace the wealth and resourcefulness of a fully stocked library and a knowledgeable librarian.

With Michigan already grappling with dismal child literacy rates, this move seems particularly ill-timed. Reports show that in 2022, a shocking 6% of Michigan third graders were significantly behind in reading, with Black third graders more than four times as likely to lag. With 38% of Lansing’s students being Black, the district’s decision raises questions about educational equity.

What’s next for K-8 librarians?

According to the Center for Educational Performance and Information’s 2022-23 data, the district employs about 12 librarians for over 10,000 students. While the high school librarians seem to have secured their roles for now, the fate of their K-8 counterparts remains uncertain.

Bookworms and busy parents: growing concerns.

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Jekeia Murphy, a parent and former principal, voiced her worries about the lack of clear communication from the district’s board of education and the administration. She questioned how students would access diverse, quality reading materials without librarians to guide them.

Murphy’s concerns echo a broader frustration within the community about the administration’s transparency.

The Michigan School Index System Guide suggests a ratio of one librarian per 6,125 students, a stark contrast to the desired one full-time arts or gym teacher per 124.6 students. This ratio has led to a disincentive to hire certified librarians, despite their proven impact on literacy and overall student success.

The battle for librarians.

Research consistently shows that librarians significantly boost students’ literacy scores and other success indicators, such as graduation rates. Currently, Michigan ranks a dismal 47th in the nation for librarian-to-student ratios. However, there’s a glimmer of hope: pending legislation in the Michigan Senate aims to increase librarian numbers and mandate a library in every school building.

The district’s next Board of Education meeting on July 18th promises to be a heated affair, with parents, educators, and library advocates undoubtedly ready to make their voices heard. As the community waits with bated breath, the question remains: will the Lansing School District’s narrative turn into a cautionary tale or a story of redemption?