WHEREAS… Reading is necessary for students’ academic success.

WHEREAS…Reading is a skill that requires practice for both maintenance and improvement.

WHEREAS… School libraries must provide appropriate books and other print materials for students to read.

WHEREAS…Per pupil circulation of library books is lower now than in 1992 due to a decrease in the availability of new library materials.

WHEREAS…Per pupil ratio of school librarians to students has deteriorated over the past years so that Indiana is currently ranked 49^th of the 50 states in providing professional school librarians.

WHEREAS…Expenditures for school library books have remained static or decreased from 1992 to 2004 while average book prices have increased from $9 in 1992 to $19 in 2004.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Indiana State Reading Association supports efforts to increase the minimum annual spending required for school library media collections in each school building from $8 to $16 per student and restoration of the Library Materials Grant Program.

Indiana State Reading Association Board of Directors.  January 24, 2004