Requesting The Department Of Education To Transfer The Ewa Beach Public And School Library From The State Public Library System To James Campbell High School.
The proposed transfer aims to enhance the operational hours of the library, currently limited and inconvenient for students. Currently, the library's hours are dictated by state funding and management, which results in closures on certain days. By integrating the library within the school system, it is anticipated that students will have easier access to the library's resources, potentially improving academic support and community engagement.
Senate Concurrent Resolution 9 (SCR9) requests the Department of Education to transfer the Ewa Beach Public and School Library from the Hawaii State Public Library System to James Campbell High School. This request stems from the library's historical role, having opened in 1971 with the dual function of serving both the school and the community. By relocating the library, the intent is to improve its accessibility to students from James Campbell High School, Pohakea Elementary School, and Ilima Intermediate School, ensuring that resources are available during more convenient hours.
While the bill seems largely beneficial in theory, discussions around its implementation could bring up points regarding funding, as transitioning the management could lead to budgetary implications. There may also be discussions on how this change affects the community’s access to library services, particularly for those who are not students of James Campbell High School. Furthermore, ensuring that the library continues to serve its dual role as both a school and public library will need careful consideration.