The role of the K-7 Library Media Specialist in Barnstable Public Schools is under threat. This position is not just a job, but a pillar of our educational community. The responsibilities are vast and varied, including library maintenance across 7 schools, budgeting and ordering, vetting books that promote equity and diversity, professional development for paraprofessionals, training new staff members, creating summer reading programs for grades K-7, managing weeding and surplus procedures, communicating library trends to staff and students alike as well as developing supportive library classes for grades 6-7.

To be clear, this is the ONLY certified librarian position across 7 of the 8 schools in Barnstable. Every school aside from the high school has a paraprofessional Library Assistant, not a certified librarian. The K-7 Library Media Specialist oversees the assistants.

The loss of this position would be detrimental to our school system. It would impact not only the quality of education but also the promotion of literacy among our young learners. Libraries are more than just repositories for books; they are hubs for learning where students can explore different perspectives through literature.

The Library Media Specialist plays an essential role in fostering this environment by carefully selecting diverse materials that reflect our global society. Furthermore, the role provides crucial support to Library Assistants through training sessions and professional development opportunities.

Without this position filled by a certified, qualified individual who understands its importance within our school community's fabric, we risk losing an essential position that promotes literacy growth among students while supporting educators' ongoing learning needs.

We urge you to consider the long-term implications on education quality within Barnstable Public Schools if this vital role is lost. Please join us in petitioning against the removal of the K-7 Library Media Specialist position from Barnstable Public Schools – because every child deserves access to quality resources that foster their love for reading and learning.

Link to Barnstable Schools' FY 2025 budget presentation: https://www.barnstable.k12.ma.us/Page/5826