S.2078

Creates the School Libraries Act.

Introduced·1/16/26
Introduced Text

Establishes the School Libraries Act to ensure all Rhode Island public schools have libraries and librarians.

The School Libraries Act mandates that every public school in Rhode Island have a school library in a permanent and dedicated space, managed by a certified school librarian. It requires high schools to have at least one full-time librarian by 2027-2028, middle schools by 2029-2030, and all K-12 schools by 2031-2032. The act also ensures student access to libraries beyond regular class time and emphasizes the importance of school librarians in teaching information literacy.

Included in complete analysis

  • Overview
  • Core Provisions
  • Implementation
  • Impact
  • Legal Framework
  • Critical Issues

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Where it stands

Current
Education Committee
Next
Committee decision

Sponsors

DDDDDDDD
8
0
Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

Roll Call Votes

Senate Committee on Education: Be held for further study

8 Yea

DDDDDDDD

0 Nay

2 Absent

DR

Calendar

Mar 4

12:00 AM

Senate Education Hearing

History

Mar 4

Senate

Committee recommended measure be held for further study

Feb 27

Senate

Scheduled for hearing and/or consideration (03/04/2026)

Jan 16

Senate

Introduced, referred to Senate Education