Bill > S05989

This bill amends the New York State Education Law to require school districts to provide an option for parents to request a local library card for their minor child during school registration. Specifically, when parents register a child for full-time kindergarten, they will now have the opportunity to check a box on the registration form authorizing the child to receive a local library card. The bill also requires school districts to distribute library informational materials and library card applications to students at specific grade levels (typically grade one, six, and nine) and upon new student enrollment. Libraries must provide sufficient materials to schools and consult annually with school districts to coordinate distribution. The materials will be available in school libraries and can be distributed to students and parents. The bill aims to promote reading and learning by encouraging partnerships between local libraries and schools, while ensuring that no additional funds are required from school districts to implement these provisions. The act will take effect 120 days after becoming law, and does not apply to cities with over one million residents that already have local laws governing library material distribution in public schools.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S5989