In an effort to determine the current status of School Library Media Specialists (SLMS), School Libraries, and funding for School Library programs in New Jersey, The New Jersey Library Association (NJLA) and the New Jersey Association of School Librarians (NJASL) collaborated on:

1. A census of certified School Library Media Specialists (SLMS)
2. A survey to gain further insight into New Jersey School Library Programs

The survey was developed to coincide with the recent signing of the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) which includes School Librarians and school library programs as an essential component in education. This reauthorization provides new opportunities for school librarians and school library funding. Based on survey results, NJLA and NJASL believe ESSA presents a critical opportunity to reinvest in school library programs, to unlock the potential in New Jersey students and prepare them for college and beyond.

Read the new report: School Library Programs in New Jersey: Building Blocks for Realizing Student Potential with ESSA Legislation Opportunities.  This a step in the advocacy efforts to increase support for New Jersey School Library programs. 

What next?  NJLA has started the Unlock Student Potential Website to provide a central location for advocacy for school library programs in New Jersey.  Please sign the petition available on the site to say that you value school library programs, literacy and information literacy.