Budgets & Funding

Three administrators speak with SLJ about their districts' allocation of relief funds.

In covering achievements in the library world, it’s natural to focus on outcomes, reporting and raising up the endpoint of success. This story represents a win, for sure. But as Colleen Kilbreath, director of the Stanton County (KS) Public Library recalls, it stemmed from failure.

The application period is now open for schools and libraries to seek funds from the $7.17 billion fund dedicated to helping with technology and internet access. The deadline to apply is August 13.

Twenty-five libraries in Title I schools have been awarded the $700 grants, presented by the Mathematical Sciences Research Institute, in partnership with SLJ.

The pandemic has significantly impacted school library budgets and spending this year. Here's what has changed.

Educators and library advocates celebrated the signing of a bill that will bring record funding to support their needs.

Presenting the average book prices for 2020–2021 to date, produced annually by SLJ in partnership with Follett and Baker & Taylor. 

The children's literature world was shocked by the unexpected death of author Kathleen Krull, who had recently been diagnosed with cancer. Also in this edition of News Bites, Ibram X. Kendi makes a deal with Netflix; opportunities for funding; and more.

President-elect Joe Biden's plans include tripling Title I funding, getting mental health professionals into all schools, and helping teachers pay off college loans.