IL SJR0013

Creates the University Library & Professional Librarian Access & Transparency Task Force to study the role of faculty librarians in student retention, graduation rates, curriculum development, and research, with particular focus on at-risk, low-income, first-generation, and marginalized students

Task Force will examine library funding levels, staffing ratios, collection processing decisions, and the impact of libraries on student costs including open access textbook development at Illinois public universities and community colleges

Membership includes 27+ members: four legislators (with Senate and House co-chairs), the State Librarian, representatives from the Board of Higher Education and Community College Board, university and community college presidents, library deans, faculty librarians, and six students

Requires a minimum of two public hearings in at least two different counties, with administrative support provided by the Illinois Board of Higher Education and Illinois Community College Board

Final report due to the General Assembly by June 30, 2026, after which the Task Force dissolves