Pennsylvania House Bill HB769

Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/3/25
• Refer: 3/3/25

Caption

In grounds and buildings, providing for physical space for school library or information center; and, in books, furniture and supplies, providing for school library collections.

Impact

With HB769, schools will have to conform to new building standards set forth by the State Board of Education regarding library space, which will be reviewed and updated every decade. The bill emphasizes physical and technological resources, compelling schools to provide a minimum number of library items per grade, thereby significantly increasing the emphasis on library collections and the importance of educational materials available to students. This increase in resource allocation is aligned with fostering an environment that supports comprehensive educational practices.

Summary

House Bill 769 is a legislative proposal aimed at enhancing the educational resources available in public schools in Pennsylvania. Specifically, the bill mandates that every public school must maintain a designated physical space for a library or information center starting in the 2026-2027 school year. This library space is required to support a collection that meets specified educational needs, thus elevating the standards of educational materials accessible to students. The bill outlines detailed criteria for the types of materials to be included and ensures that certified librarians oversee the development of school library resources.

Sentiment

Responses to HB769 are generally positive among educators and library advocates who believe that the bill will enhance learning environments across the state. Supporters argue that establishing dedicated library spaces can stimulate student engagement and improve educational outcomes. However, skepticism exists regarding the feasibility of this mandate, considering budget constraints and the potential additional costs linked to renovating or constructing buildings that meet these new standards. Critics are concerned about whether the proposed requirements might inadvertently place financial strain on underfunded school districts.

Contention

A point of contention surrounding HB769 involves the implications for schools that are already struggling financially. As the bill stipulates stricter requirements for library resources and building standards, there may be challenges in implementation, particularly for schools in lower-income areas. This has raised questions about the equity of resources across districts and whether some schools might be able to fully comply while others cannot, potentially leading to disparities in educational quality. Advocates for educational reform are calling for additional funding support to ensure that all schools can meet these new expectations.