We need a library in every Australian school

School libraries can do much more than improve literacy.
Photo: Elliott Reyna / Unsplash.

It’s an idea that’s striking in its simplicity but potentially profound in its implications.

This requirement could help level the playing field and give all students a chance to enjoy these educational and cultural spaces.

In last year’s Australian School Library Survey, 43% of participants reported their library budget was inadequate, and 56% said their library wasn’t adequately staffed. The survey also found more respondents said their school library was decreasing than increasing.

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Daniel Herborn is a journalist and novelist based in Sydney. His writing has appeared or is forthcoming in The Saturday Paper, The Monthly, The Guardian, The Sydney Morning Herald, The Age, and others. He has also practised law at an Intellectual Property firm specialising in creative industries clients.