HI HB962

Establishes a two-year school librarian pilot program administered by the Department of Education to provide funding for qualifying schools to hire or retain librarians

Schools must have a library space meeting "basic" standards and use funds to hire librarians who meet the Department's Elements of a Quality School Library Media Program standards

Funds must be used exclusively for librarian salaries and benefits, and must supplement (not replace) existing library budgets and positions

Participating schools must submit annual reports on fund usage and impact on library services; DOE must submit an interim report by 2026 legislative session and final report with recommendations by 2027

Pilot program expires June 30, 2027; appropriation amounts left blank for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027