Hello, The Michigan Library Cooperative Directors Association has approved the following statement in support of school libraries and librarians. Please do not hesitate to share the statement with your library board; library staff; state and U.S. legislators; school superintendents; school administrators; school librarians; and school board members. Thank you. [cid:image001.jpg@01D05A64.A4A3C4D0] Michigan Library Cooperative Directors Association Statement on School Libraries and Librarians The Michigan Cooperative Directors Association fully endorses the Michigan Department of Education and the Library of Michigan’s support for school library media centers. School media centers are an integral part of the K-12 education for the students in Michigan and provide a thirteen year foundation in teaching and learning. In addition, the MCDA supports the employment of fully certified school librarians/media specialists in every public and private school in the state. Studies show that schools who have librarians working with teachers on curriculum needs and students who receive instruction in library research are not only higher achievers, but are also prepared for higher education and career pursuits. Information and digital literacy skill development are the foundation of excellent school library programs and are vitally important to successfully meeting Michigan’s Common Core Standards. Each student should be able to experience a school media center environment where research and exploration are enhanced by a dedicated school media specialist. Furthermore, the MCDA supports the belief that the ‘birth to elder’ continuum includes all types of libraries – school, public, academic, and special - in order to develop and maintain a fully informed community of individuals in our state. Cooperatives recognize that each type of library contributes to educational excellence in Michigan. School libraries and librarians are equal partners in that equation. Adopted February 20, 2015 Michigan Library Cooperative Directors Association Detroit Library Cooperative ▪ Lakeland Library Cooperative ▪ Mid-Michigan Library League ▪ Mideastern Michigan Library Cooperative ▪ Northland Library Cooperative ▪ Southwest Library Cooperative ▪ Suburban Library Cooperative ▪ Superiorland Cooperative ▪ The Library Network ▪ White Pine Library Cooperative ▪ Woodlands Library Cooperative Denise Hooks Director, Mideastern Michigan Library Cooperative President, Michigan Library Cooperative Directors Association (810) 232-7119