ALA: School libraries in financial trouble School libraries are struggling with budget cuts brought on by recession-driven financial tightening and federal neglect, according to a new report by the American Library Association. A survey conducted for ALA by the Pew Research Center found that more than 90 percent of respondents found that libraries are important for the community. But that public support hasn't translated into financial support for school libraries, which have been targeted for staffing cuts nationwide. "On one hand, budget and testing pressures have led to decisions to eliminate or de-professionalize school libraries," ALA Board President Barbara Stripling… Read More