The Philadelphia Alliance to Restore School Librarians (PARSL), the Pennsylvania School Librarians Association (PSLA), and EveryLibrary staged a silent “read-in” to advocate for the restoration of certified school librarians in all School District of Philadelphia schools where today only 5 of the 218 buildings have certified school librarians.  The book-reading demonstration was held on the steps in front of the School District of Philadelphia's Administration Building on Friday, June 27, where approximately 130 parents, children, teachers, and community members participated. Several librarians attending the American Library Association’s Annual Conference in the Convention Center also attended.

The public event was organized to bring attention to the need to prioritize reading and literacy by reestablishing school libraries with professional librarians in all district-operated schools. Philadelphia has the worst ratio of students to librarian of over 39,000 students per certified librarian. Two out of three children in Philadelphia cannot read on grade level by 4th grade. Research has shown that school librarians support improved student literacy (including digital media literacy), encouraging students to develop the habit and joy of reading to learn.

Photographs and videos are available. Please contact Deb Kachel [email protected] for more.

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 School District of Philadelphia to build inclusive, engaging, and effective libraries in every school. This volunteer organization currently has over 1,500 supporters. 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.