Friends of the Oakland Public School Libraries: Building Bridges to the Local Community

Ramirez, Carmina

Kaun, T. tomkaun@gmail. co. (2014). Friends of the Oakland Public School Libraries: Building Bridges to the Local Community. CSLA Journal, 38(1), 20–23. Retrieved from

http://libaccess.sjlibrary.org/login?url=http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=lls&AN=109348275&site=ehost-live&scope=site

Due to reduced funding for library resources and staff, the Oakland Public School Libraries relied on the help of volunteers to build their book collections. This group of volunteers mainly focused on expanding the library collections by acquiring books through community donations. But noticing that school libraries in the district needed much more, the volunteers created a non-profit named Friends of the Oakland School Libraries whose mission became to fully refurbish all fourteen libraries in the school district. They are also ensuring that all libraries are up to date and they advocate for quality trained staff. Out of 47 sites they have helped refurbish 26 library spaces and others are being evaluated for updates. The group has accessed grants to fund their work. This is a great example of partnerships helping libraries while advocating for much needed certified library staff.

This article is a reminder of the urgent need for more library certificated staff. It is phenomenal what a community has been able to accomplish when they come together with a clear goal. But it should be a message that although the community its providing what is needed, more has to be invested from public funds to support library services.