This year the Strandwood PTA would like to support our library and librarian for our Fund A Need.

Over the last two years, due to COVID, the Strandwood Library has struggled to get the funding it needed to provide all the updated and necessary resources and tools to our children. The library is a pivitol part of the our childrens' experience at Strandwood and our librarian, Laurel Burns, has worked tirelessly to provide up to date and relevant books and resources for our children.

All contributions go directly to the Strandwood Library.

From our librarian Laurel Burns:

Dear Strandwood Parents and Community:

I am sorry I am unable to be at the Dinner Dance in person to thank you for supporting our school library. I have to admit that I performed a little happy dance when I heard that the library program will benefit from tonight’s auction. Strandwood and the library are a huge part of my life. I am finishing my 24th year as the school’s teacher librarian, and I love working at Strandwood. My number one goal every day is to get kids excited about books and reading! My mission is to inform anyone who will listen that school libraries play a vital role in education. School libraries put books into the hands of every student, and school libraries provide access to books and materials that some kids may not have outside of school.

Most people think my job is checking books in and out. It is so much more. In fact, my fabulous parent volunteers do the majority of the checking in and out for me. As a credentialed teacher librarian, I see every first through fifth grade class each week in the library; and I teach grade level appropriate lessons based on the California State Library Standards. My lessons are designed to help all students access, evaluate and use information. I want my kids to have the ability to integrate information literacy skills into all areas of their learning.

Unfortunately, many school districts, including Mt. Diablo, have made considerable cuts to their library programs in recent years. The lack of funding presents a significant  challenge for teacher librarians as we work to keep our libraries current while providing relevant materials for our students. Fortunately, the amazing Strandwood community has contributed to our library by donating to the Birthday Book Club, holding Book Fairs and providing PTA funding. Without all of you, the library would not be what it is today.

Libraries impact all students. They encompass all subject areas. School libraries should not be viewed as “nice to have” in our schools. They should be seen as essential spaces for learning, for safety and for success!

Thank you for supporting the Strandwood library program!

Most sincerely,
Laurel Burns