It has come to my attention that the Halifax Regional School Board has an overwhelming surplus of 3 million dollars.
I am a Library Support Specialist in the HRM. Last week I was told the devastating news that my position would be cut by 50%. I am currently working at 90%. This is a HUGE jump, and I was mortified. This means next year my students will only be able to access the library 2 days a week, for only a few hours each day. Ridiculous! It is unbelievable that a school board would take away from its children; and of all things the promoting of literacy.
My library is used immensely each day and is a place of refuge, recreation and reading.I’m not the only Specialist to be cut a percentage. I have spoke to at least 3 other workers who have been drastically cut. This gives me little hope in receiving a position at any other school next year since so many Specialists are being reduced.
I completely do not understand how this can be happening. What type of academic setting doesn't have a library? There is much talk of Phys Ed and Music funding, but hardly a mention of libraries and library workers; considering Nova Scotia has some of the highest illiteracy rates among people in Canada.
Being told three weeks before the summer closure that my position is redundant was very unfair to both the students and me; particularly with no mention that this may happen.
One Mad Librarian!
By Sara-Anne G.