Libraries have long been the place students can go for in-depth information on any topic, plus free computers, production software, printers, and Internet access. Kids who don’t have computers and can’t use online resources face serious disadvantages: They are likely to fall behind in school, and without digital skills, they’ll be less employable as adults.
The connection between library access and school success is so important that the White House has initiated a nationwide program to make sure that every student has a library card. President Obama launched the White House ConnectED Library Challenge in April 2015, calling on city government, school leaders and library directors to foster partnerships that ensure every child enrolled in school can receive a library card.
The ConnectED Library Challenge recognizes the critical role that libraries play in providing all students with the technology and resources they need to be successful learners. It also recognizes the critical role libraries play as trusted community anchors that support learning and connectivity at all times.
“Succeeding in today’s society requires a higher order of problem solving, critical thinking skills and continuous learning throughout life,” said Susan Benton, president and CEO of Urban Libraries Council. “Strong partnerships among local government, schools, and libraries within our communities will improve educational outcomes for all children,” said Benton. “These partnerships are a significant first step in bridging the divide of technology and educational resources in communities across the United States.”
KCLS and the Seattle Public Library are among 60 communities nationwide that are participating in the Challenge.
KCLS works with schools in all parts of the County to ensure that every child in the service area has a personal library card. But that isn’t always enough, according to KCLS Director Gary Wasdin: “For some kids, getting to a library is difficult, if not impossible. Others have trouble providing proof of residence, required for a library card. And kids who don’t always return items on time may have their cards blocked for excessive fines, often more than their families can pay. A blocked card means the student can’t use library resources, or even library computers. ”
Last fall, KCLS began implementing an innovative solution to the problem of blocked cards or homeless kids without a permanent address. In collaboration with school districts, registered students are automatically issued a KCLS student account. Each K-12 student will have a special library account based on student ID numbers: easy for students to remember, and there are no physical cards—or physical, misplaceable library assets—associated with these accounts.
Student accounts give full access to KCLS eBooks, digital and downloadable materials, databases, and online homework help from home or school using any computer or device any time, from anywhere. Since no physical materials can be checked out, no fines accrue.*
Wasdin continued: “KCLS serves 18 school districts over a 2,300 square mile area. We’re still implementing student accounts district by district, but early indications are that this will be a successful way to ensure all students have any-time access to the library resources they need for success in school.”
The ConnectED program’s national partners include the Urban Libraries Council, Institute of Museum and Library Services and American Library Association.
For more information on the ConnectED Library Challenge, visit: https://www.imls.gov/issues/national-initiatives/connected-library-challenge
