Confusion over school libraries

This line in Sunday’s Our View editorial has caused much consternation.

Lawmakers are considering two bills. The Senate version would mandate that districts use a specific formula for spending on libraries. The result would be more money for librarians, but Spokane Public Schools says that would come from current allocations.

Spokane parent Lisa Layera Brunkan says the bill was never intended to rob Peter to pay Paul. However, the Senate Bill report does have some wording that has caused confusion.

According to the office of state Sen. Tracey Eide (one of SB 6380’s sponsors), new language will be forthcoming that makes it clear that this will be new funding on top of what districts already receive, which was always the intent.

Meanwhile, articles here and here show that this issue has resonated on a national level with librarians.

And here’s an article that ran in the Los Angeles Times in December.