WHEREAS, Virginia’s public schools serve more than 1.2 million students, and school libraries play a vital role in supporting literacy, academic achievement, and equitable access to information for learners across the Commonwealth; and

WHEREAS, Virginia employs over 1,100 licensed school librarians, who provide instruction in research skills, digital citizenship, and information literacy — skills essential for college, career, and civic readiness; and

WHEREAS, school libraries in Virginia circulate millions of books and digital resources each year, ensuring that students of all backgrounds have access to high-quality reading materials that foster curiosity and a lifelong love of learning; and

WHEREAS, research consistently shows that schools with certified librarians and well-resourced libraries have higher reading and writing achievement, particularly for students from historically underserved communities; and

WHEREAS, Virginia school librarians collaborate with teachers to support classroom instruction, curate diverse and age -appropriate materials, and help students navigate an increasingly complex information landscape; and

WHEREAS, school libraries serve as safe, inclusive spaces where students can explore ideas, develop critical thinking skills, and engage in creative inquiry; and

WHEREAS, April provides an opportunity to recognize the essential contributions of school libraries and librarians to student success, educational excellence, and the intellectual vitality of the Commonwealth;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Abigail D. Spanberger, do hereby recognize April 2026, as SCHOOL LIBRARY MONTH in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.