In response to the article last week entitled “MLK High School Book Bank’s future uncertain,” I would normally be flabbergasted at a school trying to get rid of a longtime volunteer organization whose purpose is to make up for a severe lack of working libraries in Philadelphia schools. What were they thinking? I would feel amazed — except this sounds like just a rotten part of a chronic problem that has plagued our underfunded city schools for a while.

Thank goodness for those who help with this book bank, and I am sorry you are going through such a mess. You should be honored, not harassed! 

Meanwhile, I want to mention the horrible safety issue of milk crates. Lord knows, these are dangerous objects in any location. In a school? Best to ban them. (Not.) But please find a way to enable this book bank to continue, at least as long as you cannot hire sufficient library staff to enable our students to study and learn as they should. 

Meanwhile, know that there is another organization that is attempting to help: the Philadelphia Alliance to Restore School Librarians (PARSL). This group, apparently supported by the Pennsylvania School Libraries Association (which is a longtime and vital part of all public school library life (I know, because my mom was a member for decades) seeks supporters to drive home the message of what our students need. Check them out at #librarians4phillyschools on social media.

Please be aware that the American Library Association (the national organization) is meeting this year in Philadelphia! During that time, PARSL will hold a read-in on Friday, June 27 from 1-1:45 p.m. at school district headquarters, 440 N. Broad St., Philadelphia. Please consider joining in to show your support of staffed school libraries!

Jennifer French, Flourtown