WCEF helps fund librarians at all schools next year

Our children are growing up in the computer age. New technologies have redefined how they learn, with search engines and websites sharing the stage with microfiche and the Dewey decimal system. The rise of computers has led many to fear the demise of books. If the libraries at Las Lomas, WCI and the five elementary schools in the WCSD are any indication, that fear is clearly misplaced. As Indian Valley Librarian Joan Anderton points out, “Despite what some pundits want you to believe, books are here to stay.” In fact, our libraries remain a vital component of our children’s education, serving as thriving resource centers and quiet sanctuaries. Recognizing their critical role, WCEF is committed to funding library services and hours that might otherwise be threatened by budget cuts.

Together, the seven libraries house over 100,000 books. The art of reading, learning how to find books, and conducting research is “alive and well in our school libraries,” says Catherine Leutzinger, librarian at Buena Vista. The addition of computers has not replaced the traditional library but created a “media” side that enhances the learning experience. Liz Davis, acting librarian at WCI, explains, “Although computers are important, it is imperative that students have access to a library and understand how to locate and use all resources. It is a skill they will need for high school and college.” The library provides a hub for learning, studying and a “structured environment where students meet to work on group projects and do homework,” says Joan Wheeler, Las Lomas librarian. It also offers a quiet oasis for students who would otherwise be tempted by the many distractions at home, she adds.

Navigating the library can be a daunting task given the myriad of resources available today. As such, the librarians focus on teaching traditional learning strategies as well as 21st century computer skills. At the elementary school level, the library period is comprised of book time and media time. While computer instruction begins in kindergarten, books remain the core of the library. “Checking out books is still a very important part of this period. I see children daily enjoying the printed word in the same way we did,” Anderton says. Leutzinger adds, “Come into Buena Vista’s library any morning before school and you will see students checking out books, reading books and magazines, showing books to their parents and friends. They get it – books are great, reading is great, libraries are great!” The library also provides a respite during recess “for kids who just want a quiet place away from the hubbub of the playground,” says Anderton.

Instilling the joy of reading is not lost at the middle school level. “It is a wonderful sight to see children sitting on the floor among the stacks of books or at the table surrounded by great literature, discussing topics with their peers,” says Davis. With students required to write research papers, Davis helps them learn how to use reference materials and properly evaluate information found on websites. The WCI library plays a key role after school as well. “WCEF pays for the library to remain open each day for one hour after school. There are between 40-60 students who come in daily,” explains Davis. “They work on homework, research projects, use the computer lab, work collaboratively with other students, or just enjoy a great book.”

The Las Lomas library is an active learning center with a vast collection of print, audio and computer resources. “The library is busy constantly with visits from classes doing research, hearing booktalks, choosing outside reading books, and using the 30 computers for lab work,” says Wheeler. Open almost every day until 5:45, the library provides a venue for students to work on group projects and homework. Many students also attend after-school tutoring sessions held by faculty.

Wheeler, whose salary is funded through WCEF, believes that the librarian’s role is even more critical today. “We are awash in a tidal wave of information that competes for students’ attention,” she explains. “Librarians teach students how to evaluate and choose wisely between formats and sources so they can avoid unreliable information on the internet.” Davis adds, “The library is an invaluable service to so many of our students, especially those who don’t have access to books and computers in their homes.”

National studies indicate that students with strong library media programs score higher academically than schools with weaker programs. Given their importance, the Acalanes and Walnut Creek School Districts have paired with WCEF to fund library services that would otherwise be impacted by budget cuts. “Thanks to WCEF, our libraries are open every hour that school is open. Had WCEF not stepped in last year when the district reduced our hours, we would have had to reduce services to students,” says Leutzinger. With generous parent support through WCEF, our seven libraries will continue to play a vital role in our children’s education.

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