The proposed bill, titled "The School Libraries Act," aims to enhance the role and accessibility of school libraries in public schools across Rhode Island. It mandates that every public school must have a dedicated school library space and be staffed by a certified school librarian. The act emphasizes the importance of well-funded school library programs, asserting that they are essential for improving students' reading skills, fostering a love for learning, and equipping students with necessary information and media literacy skills.

The bill outlines specific requirements for school libraries, including an adequate collection of reading materials that meets the needs of the student population, appropriate spaces for reading and study, access to technology, and a budget for maintaining library resources.

Additionally, the act stipulates that public schools with a student population of 250 or more must have at least one full-time certified school librarian, while schools with fewer than 250 students are required to have at least a half-time librarian. The implementation of these requirements will be phased in as follows: by the 2027-2028 school year, all high schools must have at least one full-time certified school librarian; by the 2029-2030 school year, all high schools and middle schools must have at least one full-time certified school librarian; and by the 2031-2032 school year, all K-12 schools must have at least one full-time certified school librarian.

The bill also ensures that students have daily access to the school library for reading and research activities, with secondary schools providing access beyond regular school hours, which may include before-school, after-school, and/or Saturday hours. This legislation is set to take effect upon passage.