[CALIBK12] A campaign for libraries (NY Times)

[Stephen Krashen]

A Campaign for Libraries
Published: June 23, 2009
New York Times

To the Editor:

Re “At 88, a Writer Fights for Libraries, and Tells a Few of Life’s Tales” news article, June 20:

Ray Bradbury’s logic in supporting California libraries is 100 percent correct, and agrees with the extensive research showing that public and school library quality is positively associated with reading achievement in school.

California’s reading scores are among the lowest in the nation, and its libraries, public and private, are among the most underfinanced. Nevertheless, California is cutting its libraries even more, while grimly retaining financing for budget items that don’t help anybody.

Let’s hope California listens to Ray Bradbury. 

Stephen Krashen
The writer is professor emeritus of education at the University of Southern California.