Meera Garud, HASL Advocacy Chair, coordinated a table spotlighting the importance of school libraries and school librarians at the recent Schools of the Future conference in Honolulu. Our table featured a slideshow of members' libraries as well as posters about the impact of school libraries on student success. We provided multiple handouts including HASL's legislative one-pager, information on the Nene Award and the Anuenue Award, resources for students available at Hawaii State Public Libraries, and a toolkit for linking SEL with picture books from Reading is Fundamental. A number of people from different role groups stopped by our table including current HASL members and librarians and teachers from independent schools, We had a lot of fun and helped raise library awareness among the engaged and dynamic SOTF attendees. Meera also facilitated a meeting with Representative Jenna Takenouchi (House District 27) to discuss how to improve student access to school library programs and certified school librarians throughout the state. Representative Takenouchi shared several possible steps forward including drafting a bill or a resolution about school libraries and librarians. A bill is harder to pass but has more legal and actual impact. A resolution is a statement of belief or intent that is easier to pass but will not require any actual action to be taken. In either case, having a bill or resolution up for consideration in the legislative session may motivate HASL members and school library supporters throughout the community to reach out to their legislators and draw attention to this important issue. Representative Takenouchi reminded up that passing legislation is a marathon, not a sprint but that she'll continue to be an engaged partner in this effort. Mahalo for supporting Hawaii's keiki, Caitlin Ramirez, President
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