Read-In on June 27th Calls for Restoration of School Librarians in all Philadelphia Schools

Philadelphia, PA — On Friday, June 27, from 1:00 to 1:45 PM, community members will gather for a silent “Read-In” on the steps of the School District of Philadelphia Administration Building (440 N. Broad Street) to advocate for the return of certified school librarians in every district-operated school. Philadelphia is one of the largest urban districts in the United States with only 5 librarians for 218 schools, the worst ratio of large urban school districts in the country. Dozens of studies confirm that students with access to well-staffed, well-resourced school libraries perform better academically, are more likely to read for pleasure, and are better prepared for research, civic engagement, and digital citizenship.

Organized by the Philadelphia Alliance to Restore School Librarians (PARSL), the Pennsylvania School Librarians Association (PSLA), and EveryLibrary, the event is a public show of support for student literacy, digital media literacy, and the joy of reading without protest signs or chants, just books.

The Read-In invites participants of all ages to bring a book and silently read together within this 45-minute window. Organizers emphasize that this is not a protest but a peaceful demonstration of the value that school librarians bring to student learning, equity, and success. You can learn more or RSVP for the event at https://www.restorephillylibrarians.org/philadelphia_read_in_2025.

Philadelphia is one of the largest urban districts in the United States with very few certified school librarians. Dozens of studies confirm that students with access to well-staffed, well-resourced school libraries perform better academically, are more likely to read for pleasure, and are better prepared for research, civic engagement, and digital citizenship.

"Restoring certified school librarians to Philadelphia’s public schools is a matter of educational equity," said Deb Kachel, Core Planning team member of PARSL. "We are calling on district leaders to partner with us to create a plan for rebuilding school library programs that support all students, regardless of zip code."

Participants will help amplify the message that school libraries are vital to a healthy public education system. T-shirts supporting reading, literacy, and libraries are encouraged. Media is invited to attend.

About PARSL
The Philadelphia Alliance to Restore School Librarians (PARSL) envisions a future where all Philadelphia students are empowered by strong school library programs led by certified teacher-librarians. Their mission is to co-create a strategic plan with the district to build inclusive, engaging, and effective libraries in every school. Learn more at restorephillylibrarians.org.

About PSLA
The Pennsylvania School Librarians Association (PSLA) is the state’s leading organization for school library professionals. PSLA advocates for quality school library programs and prepares educators to create critically literate, connected learners across Pennsylvania. Learn more at psla.org.

About EveryLibrary
EveryLibrary is the only national political action committee for libraries, dedicated to building voter support for public funding, access, and the freedom to read in all types of libraries. Through grassroots organizing, policy advocacy, and coalition-building, EveryLibrary works to ensure libraries and librarians have the resources they need to serve their communities. Learn more at everylibrary.org.