"Strong school libraries are so important to the long-term success of Michigan's and the nation's student population," said State Librarian Nancy Robertson.  "We are grateful for the work of our own Michigan Congressman Ehlers in ensuring progress in federal legislation to strengthen the nation's commitment to meeting the need for libraries as essential elements of our K-12 students' educational experience."

"Friends of Libraries U.S.A. is proud to honor Congressman Ehlers with our Public Service Award.  This prestigious award is given annually to a U.S. representative or senator who has worked in support of America's libraries," said Sally Gardner Reed, executive director, Friends of Libraries U.S.A.  "We are deeply appreciative of Ehlers's understanding about and support for the critical importance of professionally staffed libraries in our schools."

Reed noted that Ehlers was chosen for service to his local library board, his co-sponsorship of the loan-forgiveness efforts for librarians, and his work as one of the original sponsors of the Strengthening Kids' Interest in Learning and Libraries (SKILLs) Act, legislation that seeks to guarantee that students across America will be served by highly qualified, state-certified school library media specialists and will have the library resources they need to succeed.  The SKILLs Act reauthorizes and strengthens the Improving Literacy through School Library Program of the No Child Left Behind Act.

"I am honored to receive the Public Service Award from Friends of Libraries U.S.A.  Libraries are an asset to communities in my district and nationwide, and I will continue to support them through my work in Congress," said Congressman Ehlers.  "I was home-schooled as a child due to illness, and my constant trips to the local library, and my voracious reading of library books, gave an outstanding boost to my home schooling. I will always be grateful for that."

"I am most honored and pleased to receive this award," Ehlers added, "and will continue to share my passion for reading and libraries with others."

FOLUSA's 2008 Public Service Award will be presented at the closing reception of National Library Legislative Day on Wednesday, May 14, in the Rayburn House Office Building in Washington, D.C. 

State Librarian Robertson said that recent studies have shown that better performing schools in Michigan have, generally, better developed school library programs, including higher levels of staffing, collection development and funding; library staff that spend more time engaged with teachers and administrators in providing curriculum support and activities that contribute to collaborative teaching and learning; and more extensive and sophisticated computer networks that extend the school library's reach.

To see the comprehensive report, "The Impact of Michigan School Librarians on Academic Achievement: Kids Who Have Libraries Succeed," visit www.michigan.gov/hal, click on Products & Publications in the left-hand menu, then click on Guidelines, Handouts and Reports for Professionals, and then on Impact of Michigan School Librarians.

Roger Ashley, executive director of the Michigan Association of Media in Education, echoed Robertson's position.  "Successful school media centers are hubs of learning and offer students trained, professional media staff and reading, technology and curriculum that emphasize literacy skills, helping students hone their leadership and achieve higher class ranking," Ashley said.  "Michigan students deserve and should have the support of a trained media specialist who knows the school's curriculum, promotes technology research skills, and leads students to the best literature and learning opportunities, and the SKILLs Act would help make this a reality."

The Library of Michigan - Michigan's official state library agency for more than 175 years - is part of the Department of History, Arts and Libraries.  Dedicated to strengthening the economy and enriching the quality of life for Michigan residents by providing access to information, preserving and promoting Michigan's heritage and fostering cultural creativity, the department also includes the Mackinac Island State Park Commission, the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs, the Michigan Film Office and the Michigan Historical Center.  To learn more about the Library of Michigan, visit www.michigan.gov/libraryofmichigan.

Friends of Libraries U.S.A. (FOLUSA) is a national nonprofit organization providing networking opportunities and educational support for local friends of libraries groups, trustees, and library foundations across the country.  Over 2,000 friends groups, boards of trustees, libraries and foundations belong to FOLUSA, representing hundreds of thousands of library supporters.  Established in 1979 as a committee of the Library Administration and Management Association (LAMA) of the American Library Association, FOLUSA is now a national leader in library support and advocacy.  To learn more, visit www.folusa.org.

Read more press releases from the Department of History, Arts and Libraries (HAL).