Half of what this year's college computer science graduate learned will no longer be valid in 18 months. Most of our children will work in adult jobs for which the descriptions do not yet exist. Teachers need the tools which help children learn how to learn and develop a passion for learning. That's what school libraries are all about - providing these tools. And libraries can't effectively operate without adequate resources.
Parents know how important educational resources are to their children.
More software and personal computers were sold to homes last year than to businesses. The children's book publishing industry is booming, and the circulation rate of children's materials in public libraries is higher than ever. The future will not be kind place for the children who lack learning skills. They will find themselves behind in the international race for good schools and good jobs. My children, Mankato's children, Minnesota's children, can't fall behind.