Improving Literacy Through School Libraries kept open, is necessary, yet, may need separate federal funding.  In his State of the Union Address, President Obama stated that "In the 21st century, one of the best anti-poverty programs is a world-class education," but, the President's budget neglects funding for the Improving Literacy Through School Libraries Program - a program that helps develop the critical thinking and collaborative skills that are key to global competitiveness.  A 2009 evaluation by the Department of Education indicated that students participating in this program perform higher on state reading tests than students who do not take part in the program, but the Obama proposal puts funds for this critical program out of reach for most school libraries.  Please support this essential school library program, now.   reality