Bill > HB2685

This bill establishes a Licensed School Librarian Task Force to be created by the Illinois State Board of Education, comprised of nine members representing various educational and library organizations, including appointees from the State Board, Secretary of State, Governor, legislative leaders, and a university library program. The Task Force will meet at least four times and is required to submit a comprehensive report within 12 months of its first meeting, focusing on recommendations for how Illinois public elementary and secondary schools can consider, budget for, and employ licensed school librarians (defined as individuals with a Professional Educator License with a library information specialist endorsement). The bill highlights the critical role of school librarians in student development, noting their importance in helping students acquire unique skills, supporting academic achievement, closing achievement gaps, and fostering lifelong library engagement. The Task Force will provide recommendations on library resources in situations where schools cannot employ licensed school librarians, and the Task Force will be dissolved after submitting its report, with the entire section set to be repealed on July 1, 2027. Task Force members will serve without compensation, and the State Board will provide administrative support.

Education

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=2685&GAID=18&DocTypeID=HB&SessionID=114&GA=104