This bill establishes a new program for school library aid in Minnesota, codified under section [134.356] SCHOOL LIBRARY AID. Starting in fiscal year 2024, the aid amount for each district or charter school will be determined as the greater of $15 multiplied by the district's adjusted pupil units or a minimum of $50,000. The funds must be specifically allocated for various library-related expenses, including salaries for library media specialists, equipment, technology infrastructure, electronic resources, and necessary furniture or supplies.
Additionally, the bill includes appropriations from the general fund to the Department of Education for the implementation of this school library aid program. The appropriations detail funding for fiscal years 2024 and 2025, with specific amounts designated for each year, although some figures are left unspecified. This initiative aims to enhance the resources available in school libraries, thereby supporting educational outcomes for students across the state.