MA H5177

Requires the Massachusetts Department of Education to adopt school library standards developed by the American Association of School Librarians (AASL) and endorsed by the Massachusetts School Library Association (MSLA)

Applies to all public schools, charter schools, private day schools, residential schools, and collaborative schools in the commonwealth

Standards must address grade-appropriate collections supporting curriculum and independent reading, information literacy and research skills for K-12 students, reading proficiency, and integration of learning technologies

Commissioner must guide school committees and boards of trustees in implementing standards and developing effective school library programs staffed by certified librarians

Department must conduct implementation studies and submit reports to the legislature by December 31, 2029, and every three years thereafter, covering librarian employment, program types, and best practices