WHEREAS, certified school librarians are teachers and essential members of the school community who play an important role in student learning, instruction and classroom teacher support; and,

WHEREAS, in addition to other remote activities, school librarians:

• Provide online access to library resources so students can conduct research and explore areas of personal interest;
• Plan with classroom teachers to create and implement instructional lessons and units using Google Classrooms and other instructional platforms;
• Support classroom teachers with resources aligned with instructional units;
• Teach collaboratively with classroom teachers;
• Develop plans to integrate technology in all grades and subject areas;
• Offer professional learning opportunities on the use of electronic resources and technology to support teaching and learning; and,

WHEREAS, school librarians have demonstrated over and over how important and necessary this knowledge and expertise is to provide a continuity of teaching and learning during this period of remote learning; and,

WHEREAS, in addition to remote teaching activities, school librarians continue to fulfill their necessary administrative responsibilities such as maintaining records of library use and expenditures and pursuing grant opportunities; and

WHEREAS, according to “The Impact of School Libraries on Student Achievement” published by the New York Comprehensive Center (August, 2011) extensive research indicates schools that rely on their libraries to support student growth, specifically in the areas of literacy, information literacy, technological skills and access to resources and equipment, have seen increased student achievement and higher graduation rates; and

WHEREAS, the New York State Education Department has not enforced Commissioner’s Regulations 91.1 and 91.2 related to provision of library services, therefore be it

RESOLVED, that the UFT, in collaboration with our statewide affiliate NYSUT, continue to advocate for the creation of regulations to mandate full-time certified school librarians in every school library in every school in New York City and State, and be it further

RESOLVED, the UFT continue to provide information to members about the roles and responsibilities of school librarians and how to create and enhance existing partnerships in schools and districts, and be it further

RESOLVED, that the UFT continue to fight for the inclusion of school librarians in all current and future New York City Department of Education activities, programs and initiatives as appropriate to their role as educators, and be it finally

RESOLVED, that the UFT continue to acknowledge the contributions of school librarians in articles, member profiles, public statements and other forms of communication.