Proclaiming April 2026, as "School Library Month" in the State of Rhode Island

WHEREAS, School librarians grow an individual’s literacy and communication skills to create a stronger foundation for academic and personal success; and

WHEREAS, School libraries provide students access to books, especially books that reflect their own lives and experiences, and open their world to history and people who are different from themselves; and

WHEREAS, School librarians nurture an individual’s ability to think critically, organize information, and connect their learning to the real world; and

WHEREAS, School librarians encourage learners to not only consume information safely, but also to create content that contributes to solutions, interests, and the education of others; and

WHEREAS, School librarians encourage learners to engage as digital citizens, who participate ethically, appropriately, and critically in our digitally-mediated world; and

WHEREAS, School librarians play a critical role in the teaching and learning processes that are relevant, accessible, and varied to meet the diverse needs and abilities of learners; and

WHEREAS, The full potential of school libraries is dependent upon well-trained, professional school librarians whose varied skills assist other educators, learners, and families to effectively evaluate and use a variety of information resources in diverse formats; now, therefore be it

RESOLVED, That this House of Representatives of the State of Rhode Island hereby proclaims April 2026, as "School Library Month" in the State of Rhode Island and urges all citizens in recognizing school libraries for the critical services they provide to our learners, and for the positive impact they have on student achievement; and be it further

RESOLVED, That the Secretary of State be and hereby is authorized and directed to transmit duly certified copies of this resolution to the School Librarians of Rhode Island (SLRI) and the Rhode Island Library Association (RILA).