[CALIBK12] Texas librarian answers back

[Stephen Krashen]

 A librarian's answer
Dallas Morning News, Oct 5

Re: "Give me a reason to go to the library – We read
at Starbucks; we can love reading at school, too, says
Andrea Drusch," Saturday Viewpoints.

I have been a high school librarian for many years and
agree that the library should be warm, welcoming,
relevant and vibrant.

So what happens to prevent that? Mundane restrictions
such as personnel shortages, budget restrictions and a
few students who abuse the sanctuary often cause
libraries and librarians to curtail that which they
would ideally offer. Students leave gum on tables or
trash on the floor next to the waste can or disrespect
books and computers.

Communities sometimes object to the contemporary
novels that students would be drawn to. Adequate
personnel are necessary to either provide or clean up
after food and drink items. Rules on checkout are
necessary to keep track of resources so they can be
returned and accessible to all students.

That said, the book collection must include what
students want to read, and rules and guidelines should
be fair and reasonable.

If you and your friends love books and still connect
to the joys of your choice of reading materials, how
wonderful. Regardless of any current library scenario
you encounter, keep reading.

Gaye Eaves, Carrollton