Authors join fight to save Mull school library provision from budget axe

A CAMPAIGN to save school librarians in Argyll and Bute has gathered widespread support, including from author Debi Gliori and Michael Russell MSP, writes Louise Glen.

Rejecting the current proposals to remove school librarians throughout the region the petition says: ‘I support school librarians in their important work and reject the current cuts process in Argyll and Bute.’

Author of more than 40 children’s books, Debi Gliori said: ‘I’ve worked with children in libraries in Argyll and Bute over the last 20 years. This is a region of Scotland in desperate need of higher levels of literacy, engagement with books and open access to libraries. To slash budgets for school librarians is to court disaster.

‘Where are children on Mull supposed to access books if their library provision is axed?’

Jenny Des Fountain, a former head teacher from Mull and a campaigner against the cuts said: ‘Trying to save money this way is a very short-lived solution that has long-term implications for students, the potential workforce of the future. I truly hope the school library and librarian will be there for students for years to come.’

A spokeswoman for CILIPS, the librarians’ organisation said: ‘The proposal to remove all school librarian posts runs counter to current national initiatives aiming to support and enhance literacy, and will inevitably lead to a poorer overall educational experience for pupils. A body of impact studies highlight the contribution of school librarians to improved attainment and achievement, and maintains that school libraries are valuable for their ability to support teaching and learning, and should be the central resource of the school, open every day and staffed by a professionally trained librarian.

‘We therefore urge you to reconsider ending professionally staffed school library provision in Argyll and Bute.’

To sign the petition, visit www.change.org/ p/shout-outfor-school-librarians-in-argylland-bute