Whereas, school and academic librarians are essential members of the school and university community who play an important role in student learning, instruction, and classroom support; and

Whereas, school and academic librarians provide online access to library resources so students can conduct research and explore areas of personal interest; and

Whereas, school and academic librarians create and implement instructional lessons and units using diverse instructional platforms; and

Whereas, school and academic librarians support school and university teachers with resources aligned with instructional units; and

Whereas, school and academic librarians teach collaboratively with other teachers and professors and develop plans to integrate technology in all grades and subjects; and

Whereas, school and academic librarians offer professional learning opportunities on the use of electronic resources and technology to support teaching and learning; and

Whereas, school and academic 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, extensive research shows schools and universities 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;

BE IT RESOLVED that the Montana Library Association (MLA) supports legislation affirming the importance of school and academic libraries.

Adopted by the Montana Library Association

April 4, 2022