Today I visited our wonderful new Lending Library in Fresno. As I was checking out I was informed that the Library would be closing December 18, 2019 as a precaution to political pressures surrounding Charter Schools in CA. The library will be replaced with an online ordering system and the mobile bus.

While preventable measures in the heat of political pressure are understandable to an extent, we cannot allow resources such as SCHOOL LIBRARIES to suffer. Physical libraries provide a resource that simply cannot be replaced with a bus. The opportunity to review material before selecting, and to share non-consumables after use, is especially valuable in the home school community. The libraries also give our students the opportunity to sift through books and resources independently, selecting materials that keep them interested in learning.

The resources in the Lending Libraries have been purchased with student funds for student use. Why then should families not have convenient physical access to them? These supplies are easily accessible in public school classrooms and libraries. Do our students not deserve the same accessibility? Every public school has a library--why shouldn't it be the same with a charter?

To the politicians threatening our charter schools;

If the competition is too great it is because your schools are failing to meet a standard. Do not punish families who have found a way to thrive.

Please help us keep the Lending Libraries open to families by signing this petition and asking Inspire to stand with families and student success instead of caving to political pressures.

You can also contact your local and state officials to let them know how charter schools have benefited your family and allowed your student(s) to thrive.

Thank you for your support!