Adopt a School Library Month - September 2007

110th CONGRESS
1st Session
S. RES. 134
Designating September 2007 as `Adopt a School Library Month'.
IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES
March 29, 2007
Mr. DURBIN (for himself, Mr. COLEMAN, Mr. COCHRAN, Mr. INOUYE, and Mr. ISAKSON) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary

September 6, 2007
Reported by Mr. LEAHY, without amendment

RESOLUTION
Designating September 2007 as `Adopt a School Library Month'.

• Whereas extensive research has demonstrated a link between high-quality school libraries and student achievement in the classroom and on standardized tests, regardless of the level of poverty or family instability experienced by the student;
• Whereas 37 percent of all fourth grade children in the United States are reading at below-basic reading levels;
• Whereas the school libraries of the United States are valuable tools that could be used to inspire and enhance literacy for all children;
• Whereas, to become a lifelong reader, a student must be exposed to adults who read regularly and serve as positive reading role models;
• Whereas school librarians are--
  (1) instrumental in helping teachers educate the students of the United States; and
  (2) through the use of books, computer resources, and other resources, a necessary component for expanding the curriculum of the public schools of the United States;
  Whereas the school libraries of the United States are used as media centers to provide students with opportunities to interact with computers and other electronic information resources;
• Whereas the use of school library computers helps students develop media and technological skills, including--
  (1) critical thinking;
  (2) communication competency; and
  (3) the ethical and appropriate use of technology information access, retrieval, and production;
• Whereas the school libraries of the United States serve as a gathering place for students of all ages, backgrounds, and interests to come together to debate ideas;
  Whereas only approximately $1,000,000,000 is allocated to school libraries each year, which translates to $0.54 per student; and
• Whereas numerous programs, including the READesign program of the Heart of America Foundation, are working to reestablish school libraries as the hearts of the public schools of the United States by--
  (1) offering intensive care for school libraries though efforts designed--
  (A) to redecorate school libraries;
  (B) to revitalize technology available to school libraries; and
  (C) to replenish the book shelves of school libraries; and
  (2) renewing community support and interest for--
  (A) enriching the lives of children; and
  (B) helping students regain lost opportunities for learning:

Now, therefore, be it Resolved, That the Senate--
(1) designates September 2007 as `Adopt a School Library Month' to raise public awareness about the important role school libraries play in the academic achievement of children; and
(2) calls on the Federal Government, States, local governments, schools, nonprofit organizations, businesses, and the people of the United States to observe the month with appropriate ceremonies, programs, and other activities