Our public libraries are vital centers of lifelong learning and literacy. They are safe places for students to complete homework assignments and for adults to continue their learning and skill development. California fourth grade students rank next to last on the 1998 National Assessment of Educational Progress. This bond measure is critical to strengthen our educational system. Even though many homes have access to the internet, library visits have increased significantly.
Libraries provide access to everyone.
Proposition 14 strengthens partnerships between schools and libraries. Many communities have no libraries in areas of rapid population growth. This bond measure will return money to local communities, freeing available local funds for extending hours and programs and buying books. This bond will not fund administrative overhead, focusing instead on the vital library facility needs. Other supporters mentioned in the ballot arguments include the California Teachers Association, and Lt. Governor Cruz Bustamante.